On Dec. 7, local athlete Jennifer Averette made history as Monroe County’s first inductee to Florida’s Special Olympics Hall of Fame. A tireless athlete, volunteer and activist, Averette was recognized for her major contributions to the Special Olympics, and for her athletic accomplishments, at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando.
Averette has been involved as an athlete in the Special Olympics for years, and the program has meant a lot to her. “My favorite thing about it is that it doesn’t matter your abilities,” Averette said. “(The program treats) you equally.”
In 2018, she competed in the National Special Olympics games for stand-up paddleboarding, and she helped bring the sport of paddleboarding to Florida’s Special Olympics. She has competed and participated in a long list of sports, including bowling, flag football and bocce.
Outside of being an athlete, Averette has worked as a Special Olympics health messenger and an officiant to the 2022 games in Florida. As an officiant, she took charge in a leadership position that helped to plan the competitions.
She also serves the role of community activist as Monroe County’s sole representative for the Special Olympics Athlete Council. She attends meetings, which, she says, help to “open up a bunch of new opportunities for us down here.” She’s spoken determinedly on the need for funding the Special Olympics and other organizations providing opportunities for those with special needs.
“She is passionate about getting people to understand that she has a vote, that she has a say, and that she’s a citizen just like us,” says her mentor Ruth Holland, describing Averette’s role as an activist and a leader. “She has a speech impediment but she will make you understand what she has to say, and she considers the good of all when making leadership decisions.”
Averette’s induction marks the first time a Monroe County athlete has achieved the Hall of Fame distinction. In her acceptance speech, she thanked her family, coaches and community for helping her get to where she is today.
In the future, Averette hopes to make it to the world games for stand-up paddleboarding and to continue her cause of promoting opportunities for those with special needs, and inspiring young athletes in the process.
“I would tell (younger athletes) to set your goals, keep your head up, and you will come through,” says Averette.
Speaking about Averette’s many accomplishments, Holland says, “Jennifer speaks for herself. I’m so tremendously proud of her. I’m proud of her for taking on challenges and overcoming them, and I know she’s even going to go higher. This is just the start for her.”
Florida’s Special Olympics seeks to change lives by promoting inclusion for the disabled. “To be part of this organization is an honor, and it is an honor to see people’s lives change,” says Holland.
