By Jeremiah Finaly
In a heartwarming display of friendship and unity, Peer 1 on 1, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering social inclusion for youth on the autism spectrum and those with developmental disorders, made another memorable mark at the 50th Run Seal Beach event held on March 16th.
Even though none of us were seasoned runners, our crew, made up of special needs youth and their volunteer companions, embarked on the challenge with enthusiasm and sheer determination. Each special needs youth was paired with a dedicated youth volunteer, creating an empowering bond of support and friendship.
The atmosphere at the event was electric. You could feel the tension and thrill in the air as we all lined up at the starting line, nervous but pumped to tackle the race together.
When the race kicked off, the crowd went wild with cheers and claps, pushing us forward. People along the way were giving out high-fives and shouting words of encouragement, making us feel like a big, united team.
For many of the participants, this event was another great opportunity to socialize and connect with their peers in a supportive and inclusive environment. As they ran side by side, laughter and conversation filled the air, forming bonds that would last long after the race was over.
When we finally crossed the finish line, you could see the pride on everyone’s faces. The cheers from the crowd were awesome, not just for finishing the race, but for showing courage and strength together.
As Peer 1 on 1 continues its mission to foster social inclusion and empower youth with developmental disorders, events like the 50th Run Seal Beach show us what’s possible when we support each other.
As one of the volunteer peers said, “Today, we didn’t just run a race; we ran towards a future where everyone belongs, and everyone thrives.” Indeed, the legacy of this remarkable event will continue to inspire and uplift hearts, serving as a beacon of hope and unity in an often divided world.
A big shoutout to Mr. Rollin White and the Run Seal Beach team for making it all happen!
Jeremiah Finaly is a Senior at Crean Lutheran High School
