On August 23, the Central States Fair will once again host the summer edition of Monument Health’s Special Rodeo. Have you ever thought about volunteering? Maybe you’re hesitant because you don’t know what to expect. Well, let an experienced volunteer tell you what it’s like.
Cass Jones, Supervisor Medical Imaging Services, Rapid City Clinic, Flormann Street, has helped at Special Rodeo multiple times.
“I started volunteering with the Special Olympics in college. I helped coach basketball. It’s always just been something I enjoy doing. I strive to be the best role model I can, not just for the athletes, but for the community around me. It brings me genuine joy to serve others,” Cass says.
Cass highlights the relaxed atmosphere at Special Rodeo. “As a Rodeo Buddy, your main job is simply to get to know the participant you’re paired with and guide them from one activity station to the next,” she says. “Whether it’s a stick horse race or a ‘bull ride,’ there’s always someone at each station ready to demonstrate how it’s done. You’re there to help the participant stay engaged and ensure they have the chance to experience everything.”
Each participant brings their own unique abilities, which, Cass says, adds variety of the experience. “It’s so much fun watching people with different skill levels work together and cheer each other on. Everyone has such a great time. You also get to gently encourage participants to step outside their comfort zones. If they’re hesitant about trying something, you support them, build trust and celebrate their successes. It’s a great feeling. I love it so much.”
Previously, Cass has volunteered as a Rodeo Buddy and at the photo booth. This time around she registered to help with lunch, which is a new element to Special Rodeo. She’ll coordinate with the caterer to make sure the food gets set up. She’ll also greet attendees, help guide them to the lunch area, assist in serving food and then clean up after lunch is over.
“I oversee Medical Imaging at three clinics. I’m a working supervisor, and I want to be able to fill in wherever I can and be the most helpful, just like at Special Rodeo. I just like to try it all,” she says.
“I encourage everybody to volunteer at Special Rodeo at least once. It’s just one of those everlasting things that you don’t understand how meaningful it is until you actually do it. The athletes are always so appreciative and full of happiness—it’s contagious. Seeing their smiles, sharing in their accomplishments, and being part of that positive energy fills me with a deep sense of purpose.”
If you’d like to volunteer for Special Rodeo at Central States Fair, go to monument.health/specialrodeo.
Story by Kory Lanphear
Photos courtesy of Cass Jones