Desmond Sivels is a senior double majoring in Physics and Engineering. He is also a member of the West Virginia Wesleyan College Track and Field team. This summer, Desmond decided to make an impact aside from his full-time job of being a collegiate athlete.
“I’ve always had an urge to help people in need. When I had an opportunity to spend time with William, it was a great learning experience for both of us.” Desmond explains that William, his friend from high school, has Down Syndrome. William moved to Tennessee, limiting Desmond’s involvement in his life. This did not stop Desmond, however.
“Not everyone can understand what it is like to have a loved one with a disability. The most important thing is that you treat that person the same as everyone else.” Desmond says that there is an organization where he lives called Delawareans with Intellectual Disabilities. DFRC has raised millions of dollars over the years through its fundraising events. This organization also raises thousands of dollars yearly to support programs that encourages individual contributions and corporate sponsors. Desmond has become involved in events to support William through this organization.
If you see Desmond around campus, applaud him for impacting the lives of the people around him in a bold, positive way.