Students in Alabama A&M University’s Department of Health Sciences, Human Performance, and Communicative Sciences volunteered at the 2025 Madison County Special Olympics, held Oct. 21 at Milton Frank Stadium in Huntsville, Alabama. The service-learning experience was part of the course objectives for PED 427 and PED 516 Adapted Physical Education, which emphasizes inclusive practices and community engagement.

Under the guidance of Associate Professor and Kinesiology Coordinator Dr. Janet M. M’mbaha-Zarnesky, students served as athlete escorts, helping participants navigate the stadium, prepare for their events, and celebrate their achievements throughout the day. The activity provided a valuable opportunity for students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while gaining firsthand experience working with people with disabilities.

“Being a part of this was a significant learning and life-changing experience,” said Khamiyah Lewis, a sophomore sport management major from Washington, D.C. “Watching the student athletes compete showed me their skills, determination and strengths.”

According to event organizers, more than 500 athletes from Madison County competed in the daylong event, supported by hundreds of volunteers. The experience allowed AAMU students to demonstrate leadership, empathy, and professionalism while reinforcing the University’s mission to serve diverse communities through education and outreach.

“This experience has given me more appreciation for others,” said Zahria Jones, a kinesiology graduate student. “I enjoyed my time with Valencia and her classmates and would love to volunteer again.”

“Working with Jacob was both personally rewarding and professionally instructive,” added Tasso Moreira, a senior sport management major from Rio de Janeiro. “I plan to incorporate interest-based prompts, predictable routines, and scaffolded motor tasks into my future adapted physical activity planning.”

M’mbaha-Zarnesky emphasized that the experience goes beyond volunteering and making new friends. It gives students a chance to connect classroom learning with real-world practice.

“Each year they witness the power of inclusion, teamwork and compassion – values that strengthen their professional preparation and their sense of purpose as future educators and health professionals.”