Double helping of “7 Questions” this week, folks! Today, we’re going to meet Beata Okulska, the Executive Director of KEEN Greater DC. When no other organization offered exercise and recreation designed specficially for young people with severe intellectual and physical disabilities, KEEN (“Kids Enjoy Exercise Now”) stepped up to serve those who are often left out of community sports and games — at no cost. Read on to learn more about KEEN and about Beata!
1. What was your most interesting recent project, initiative, partnership, or event?
2010 was a very busy year for KEEN Greater DC. In addition to the Kids Euro Festival organized for KEEN athletes by the French Embassy, as well as a new public service announcement video produced by Discovery Communications for KEEN, the most significant event this past year was the newly-formed partnership between KEEN Greater DC and the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. Through this partnership KEEN athletes had the opportunity to play soccer on the White House lawn and receive the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award presented at an official White House ceremony by none other than First Lady Michelle Obama — with a surprise visit from the President himself! It was truly an unforgettable experience for all of us and a high-profile way to reinforce KEEN’s belief that people of ALL abilities can be fit, active, and part of their community.
2. What else are you up to?
There are thousands of kids with special needs living in the DC area. Our mission is to reach out to those families affected with these kinds of challenges so that every child has the opportunity to exercise and play with KEEN volunteers. It’s a challenging task, but with support from the community we hope to further expand our program in the near future, adding more sessions in 2011 .
3. Is there a moment, person, or event that inspired you to do this particular work?
When I first came to a KEEN session, I realized first-hand just how many challenges these children and teens with disabilities must face. Many of them were not able to verbally express themselves, run, or even walk, but all of them wanted to be at KEEN. Seeing the smiles and joy on the athletes’ faces after exercising and playing with their coaches made their disabilities virtually disappear for those few hours of play. I wanted to become a part of this organization that makes such a huge difference in transforming peoples’ lives.
4. Who is your hero in the nonprofit/philanthropy world?
Coming from Poland in the mid ’80s, I had no experience and knowledge with regard to running a non-profit. These kinds of organizations simply did not exist in my native country at that time. My first hero, Sandra Parks-Trusz, was the person who first introduced me to the concept of a non-profit organization and exposed me to the immense power of the philanthropic world. The second person whom I consider my hero is Tricia Luker, parent and advocate for all people with disabilities. Tricia shows me time and time again that that sky is the limit if you truly want something and, moreover, if you believe in it.
5. What is the single greatest (and non-financial) challenge to the work that you do every day?
Knowing that there are so many kids with disabilities that could be a part of our KEEN Greater DC family always stays on my mind. That motivates me every day to search for new ways to expand our programs so that we may reach out to more kids.
6. What advice do you have for other people who want to work in your field?
Believe in the cause of your mission and be passionate about it. Don’t be afraid to advocate and fight for what you believe in. You could be the voice of those who can not speak for themselves, so don’t be afraid to speak up! Always be mindful of your community and never forget that the sky is the limit!
7. What?s next?
EXPAND! EXPAND!? EXPAND! We are always trying to broaden our reach so that we may serve more kids by building partnerships in the community with other organizations and businesses.
EXTRA: If you could have a power breakfast with any three people (living, dead, or fictional) who would they be?
My grandfather, who was the most honest, tactful and generous person I have ever known;
The Dalai Lama for his peaceful struggle for peace;
Mrs. Obama for her mission to improve life through exercise and a healthy lifestyle.