What team do you participate on?
I’ve been part of the North Kingstown Special Olympics team for about 25 years. It’s more than just a team – it feels like family to me.
What sports do you compete in?
Bocce, Bowling, and Croquet. Of these sports, bocce is my favorite because I like aiming for the pallino (the small ball).
Where did you go to school?
I graduated from Cranston East High School in 1989. I then attended Chapel Haven in Connecticut.
Do you have a job? If so, tell us about it.
Yes. I’ve worked for CVS for about 33 years. I work in two different stores – one in North Kingstown and one in East Greenwich. I stock the candy aisles. My favorite part of my job is helping customers.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I wanted to be more involved with Special Olympics and become a better leader.
What have you accomplished through your involvement with ALU?
I’ve become a better leader and have applied skills I’ve learned through ALU to better spread the word about Special Olympics. One of the ways I spread the word is to wear a Special Olympics hat, shirt, or sweatshirt as often as possible so people are most likely to ask about it. When they ask, I tell them all about the Summer Games, the sports I participate in, my involvement as an athlete leader, and how much I enjoy Special Olympics.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I enjoy doing all kinds of crafts and making gifts for people. One of my favorite crafts to work on is creating homemade Christmas cards. I make every card a little different.
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
Special Olympics has given me more confidence and a community where I’ve met so many amazing people and made lasting friendships. Special Olympics is like a family to me.
Also, some people call me by my formal name, Gabrielle, while others refer to me by my nickname, Gigi.