volunteer Larry Stephenson

Volunteering at Champions Place is "like spending the day with friends." Sure you have a job to do in getting everyone to their event on time and safely, but at the same time you are enjoying everyone's company and friendship. 

Prior to my exposure volunteering at Champions Place; I never thought I had anything in common with young adults living with disabilities. I soon found out I was wrong. They have the same aspirations for success, independence, inclusion, contribution and education I had at their ages and stages in life. The great thing is that now I realize I can be a small help in making some of their wishes and goals a reality. And, one of the best things is they let me know every day how much they appreciate my efforts through their friendship, courtesy and maturity.

There is always laughter on the van during our trips; required and encouraged by all. The Titans of Champions Place love to get out whether it's to work, to church, to wheelchair sports events, or bowling, the movies, adaptive golf or a community service event; you can depend on the Titans to be on the move. 

Now, four plus years into being actively involved with my Titan friends; I feel amazingly lucky to have been originally asked to get involved. And, so very happy I was in church that Sunday at Mt. Pisgah where I was smart enough to receive and accept that invitation. Much of the heavy lifting for this enterprise had already been accomplished with funds in the bank and plans on the drawing board for Champions Place construction. I started as an assistant coach helping with scrimmages and continue to do this today. Then with construction completing and Titans moving into "CP" our van was donated and we had transportation needs. I now primarily look after the van's maintenance, train new driving volunteers and work behind the wheel as often as I can. During this time I've been lucky enough to get to know not only the 14 residents of Champions Place but also 100+ non resident Titans in the Atlanta area who enjoy all the activities of this mission of God. 

Always in search of Grace

Larry 

We are eternally grateful to Larry and our amazing team of drivers who help our residents safely and joyfully get where they need to go – be it a scrimmage, social outing, church or just to the park for some sunshine and fresh air. To join our team, learn about more volunteer opportunities or to connect with our volunteer coordinator, please visit our “Be Involved” page