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The Selfless Shusters
Selfless
service is a way of life for the Shuster brothers of Fairfax, Virginia.
For the past several years, Stephen 20, Justin 18, JP 18, and Alex 15,
have dedicated much of their free time, including Saturdays, to working
with handicapped swimmers at Fairfax's Spring Hill Recreation Center.
Spring Hill has over 30 athletes who register for Special Olympics Training
every year. These athletes have developmental disabilities, but are
true champions in every sense of the word, and the four Shuster brothers
give each the individual training required. The brothers are themselves
talented competitive swimmers, but through their service, they give
back to their sport and to their community by helping handicapped swimmers
succeed.
The brothers know the importance of being a consistent part of each
athlete's life. They take great pains to build the bond of trust so
crucial to teaching new skills. One young swimmer was fearful of water,
but over the weeks of classes he acquired the confidence to trust the
boys and know they would be on each side of him while he swam. All the
athletes are at ease with the brothers and blossom under their constant
encouragement and praise.
The Volunteer Center of Fairfax recognized the Shuster brothers for
their contribution to the community with the Family of the Year Award.
In a world where many teens are becoming increasingly self-centered,
Stephen, Justin, JP, and Alex shine as examples of a better way.
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