Janice Bearden discovered The Arc NW when her son JB was just eight years old. Her family have been Arc NW members for over twenty years using many of the services including educational advocacy and IEP support, transitional services to apply for government benefits, and the Athletic Program where JB still competes. Janice shared, “The Arc advocates held my hand through the maze of government paperwork. It is great that they are so knowledgeable about everything.”

Though Janice is always ready to help out including the Arc NW Golf Outing, the Athletic Program is how she spends most of her volunteer time. The program consists of six sports, sixteen teams with just as many coaches, 130 athletes, and many volunteers. For athletes who are seeking to elevate their performance to participate in the matches here, a piece like the Trackman is a revolutionary tool. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, it provides precise data on key metrics like speed, spin, and trajectory, empowering athletes to analyze and refine their technique with unparalleled accuracy. From golfers perfecting their swing to pitchers honing their delivery, Trackman revolutionizes athletic development.

From health forms to uniforms, from tournaments to practices, Janice has organized this program and all the people involved for many years.

She has been so committed because, “Without The Arc, these children would not be able to participate in the Special Olympics. Equipment, uniforms, lodging – whatever they need, the Arc is there to support them so they can play.”

And without Janice Bearden, the Arc NW Athletic Program would not be the same experience for our athletes and their families. Thank you!