Neighbors in Action A volunteer finds that happiness is contagious      by Carlos R. Anguizola Typaldos “Neighbors in Action” volunteers from Banco General. [Photo courtesy Special Olympics Panama ] My experience as a Special Olympics volunteer has been unique; it has introduced me to a world full of happiness and effort that inspires strength, dedication and enthusiasm. My employer, Banco General de Panama, has given me and my colleagues the opportunity to assist Special Olympics Panama through its corporate volunteer program, Neighbors in Action. I would like to share not only my experience but comments from my coworkers and fellow volunteers. “After the first day [with Special Olympics Panama athletes], I noticed that who really needed help and had limitations was me, not because my physical condition wouldn't allow me to do something, but for the simple fact I tend to give up before trying it.”      Doris Corro, Business Assistant, Banco General S.A. Curiously, my first activity with Special Olympics Panama was not in an athletics stadium or on a basketball court; it was at a birthday party organized by Neighbors in Action for Special Olympics Panama athletes. At that party, I made two observations that have influenced my life deeply. First, I realized that the happiness of athletes with intellectual disabilities was very contagious. This made me reflect how regardless of the physical or emotional problems people have, they can always smile. It is a very simple lesson, but also very deep. “It is such a beautiful experience to help people who really need our support and affection to succeed; and as with every human being, they have the right to succeed in life.”       Nelson Rodríguez, Official, Banco General S.A. Additionally, I learned that, if they want to, volunteers can quickly assume leadership roles in an organization. That day, I decided to take charge and guide my workmates in the execution of the various party activities— even if they were very simple activities, they were an example for my daily life and my relationship with others. From that moment, I was fully convinced that I could positively influence other people. A Special Olympics Program can connect you to the world; it offers you the opportunity to educate your community, family and friends about people with intellectual disabilities. Every activity I attend, I see my coworkers with their families, sharing with athletes and being 100 percent human. Within Special Olympics there is no space for coldness, selfishness or arrogance that sometimes distinguishes us in our daily life. “Through this activity, I have discovered another reality which I was a complete stranger to. There are people that need a little push, a friendly hand, a smile and, with that, their world is better.”       Jaime Águila, Systems Analyst, Banco General S.A. I think that offering your free time to an organization like Special Olympics is an opportunity to improve as a human being; it is like reading a self-help book or going to mass; it is something that makes you grow, makes you stronger, and makes you a better person. You can discover this by talking to volunteers and sensing how happy their hearts are. After every activity I participate in, I feel peace, happiness and satisfaction when I see that Special Olympics athletes are happy and have a lot to feel joyful and loved for. I think that the feeling is mutual in the hearts of my coworkers. I think this is all possible, thanks to Banco General S.A. Without its support, many of us would not have this experience. “Some years ago, when I watched on television how other organizations projected themselves to the community, I told my husband, Camilo, I would really like to work for a company where I could feel that I am doing something for my fellow creatures who need it so much.”       Hiliana de Santos, Assistant Manager, Banco General S.A. Banco General S.A. has been engaged with the mission and vision of Special Olympics Panama since the Program began. In addition to financial assistance, the bank's Neighbors in Action program makes me feel extremely proud and fortunate that I work for a really humanitarian institution. I think that the sense of social responsibility of Banco General S.A. is a worthy model for the companies of today. Carlos R. Anguizola Typaldos is a publicity officer at Banco General S.A. and a Special Olympics Panama volunteer.