News & Media

We are thrilled to announce the addition of two new Global Messengers to our Athlete Leadership team - Morgan Lazzara and Jackson Berlin-Whitehead.

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Morgan Lazzara is an athlete with our Special Olympics Vernon Local Program who enjoys playing soccer, softball, and pickleball and says her teammates and coaches have become like family to her. 

Morgan's favorite things include dancing, baking, drawing, make-up, and participating in the Miss Amazing program. She was crowned the 2024 National Miss Amazing Jr. Miss Queen. Things that also "bring her joy" are her family, friends, and two dogs.

"What I love about myself is that I love to try new things. I also love that I never use the words "I can't". I am always willing to give it a try. I might not get it right away, but I will keep trying until I do," she says. One of Morgan's long-term goals is to have her own business!

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Jackson Berlin-Whitehead is an athlete with our Special Olympics Vernon Local Program who participates in soccer, basketball, baseball, softball and pickleball.

"I made great friends along the way, and I met great people who supported me when I was at my lowest or when I was losing. I want to give back to the community by being a Global Messenger. I want to show kids that even when you're struggling or even when you have disabilities, you can play sports, make friends, and have a great time," says Jackson.

When Jackson's not participating in Special Olympics, he enjoys listening to music and was the dj for a couple of fundraisers. He is an inspiration to his teammates and coaches and was honored with Special Olympics Vernon's 2025 Sportsmanship Award. Jackson will be graduating high school in June!