Jake Yetter

The Special Olympics of Georgia has been around for quite some time now. The joy they bring to intellectually disabled children and adults is tremendous and vitally important. But this work cannot be done without the selfless efforts of their volunteers. 16 year-old Jake Yetter has been involved with Special Olympics of Georgia since he was 13 years old. Jake is dedicated to spreading awareness in the community on the challenges individuals with intellectual disabilities face. He continually motivates and supports these children and adults through volunteering his time at State Games and Camp Inspire. Through “Y-leads”, Special Olympics’ youth leaders, Jake has been able to encourage youth involvement and volunteerism to his peers. He often participates in state-wide “R-word Rallies” to raise awareness around the hurtful, offensive and derogatory “r-word” term. Jake works tirelessly to increase youth involvement in the Special Olympics to ensure that the Y-lead population will continue to flourish and support the more than 26,000 Special Olympics athletes currently participating in Georgia. Jake is bringing these ideals of the Special Olympics with him everywhere. He recently implemented the Special Olympics Project UNIFY at his school. Project UNIFY is an education and sports based strategy powered by an engaged youth community that increases athletic and leadership opportunities for students with and without intellectual disabilities, while creating communities of acceptance for all. Jake values and treasures his time with the Special Olympics and has been an exceptional volunteer for the organization. His active and dedicated role in the Special Olympics of Georgia has provided individuals with intellectual disabilities with support, but more importantly, a friend. Jake truly is a point of light as he continues to support this community and spread the message of acceptance.
If you know someone supporting and motivating a community in a meaningful way, like Jake, nominate them today for the Daily Point of Light Award!