From February 9-10, in Washington, D.C., Special Olympics athletes from 49 U.S. Programs attended more than 365 meetings with their members of Congress, advocating for continued partnership to support the organization’s work in health and education. With just about 250 delegation members in attendance, each of the more than 70 athletes shared their story, connecting with those who represent their states. Some members of Congress and their staff already knew about the Special Olympics, but for others, this was their first direct contact with the organization. It was important for each athlete to be authentic and showcase their individuality.
Haley Waggoner has a unique role each year. She’s a Special Olympics Nebraska athlete and a Government Relations Specialist with Special Olympics. Leading up to Capitol Hill Day, her role includes developing resources and training for athletes, designing the event logo and working on the core planning committee. As the Program support, she attends meetings with Nebraska’s delegation and provides support when needed. Her support helps ensure Special Olympics Nebraska staff and athletes feel confident and organized during Capitol Hill Day, reducing stress by keeping notes and guiding everyone where they need to be.
“I can't emphasize enough how much Capitol Hill Day has improved with Haley coming on staff,” Meredith Pierce, Senior Vice President of Global Government Relations, said. “I could list all of the things that Haley does for Hill Day, but it would miss the point of how significantly Haley has changed our team and Hill Day for the better.”
That insight of being both an athlete and a staff member has allowed Waggoner to lead the athlete leaders. Her position and expertise help ensure the event is a more accessible experience for all athletes. It also allows her to be front row for some of the best moments of Capitol Hill Day.
Witnessing Special Olympics Nebraska athlete Tiffiany Goodmen preparing to share her story, her body language was off, very nervous, and asking thoughtful questions. Not only did she have to speak with a representative, but David Evangelista, the newly appointed CEO of Special Olympics, was also attending her very first meeting. The moment felt big.
When she began speaking, her nerves were carried through. She talked quickly, eager to share everything at once. But when the meeting ended and the delegation stepped into the hallway, she looked up and smiled, “I did it—and I’m ready for more!”
“Athlete leaders are the ones who really move the needle the most when it comes to advancing understanding of our partnership,” Pierce said, just adding more emphasis to the importance of letting athletes share their stories in their own words.
As the day went on, Goodmen’s nerves faded. She became calm and confident. One of the highlights of her trip was challenging Senator Don Bacon to a 30-second plank. The Senator agreed and held it! Goodmen will never forget that moment.
She kept telling the Nebraska delegation, “This is the best trip I’ve ever taken.” Her mom jokingly shared, “We’ve taken her to Disney, and this is what she chose.” That says everything.
“The feedback I received from athletes is that they really felt heard by members of Congress and their staff, and saw how they were making a marked difference in the moment in their meetings -- and I hope they see the continued power of their stories in the months to come as the appropriations process continues,” Pierce said.
As an employee, seeing what this week meant to these athletes means the world to Waggoner. They are advocating for inclusion, Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® programming, and inclusive health programming. They are valued. They are seen. They are worthy.
