This month, Special Olympics Ontario is highlighting Barrie athlete Nicholas Cunningham and his outstanding contribution to the Barrie Police Service. Nick has been working with the Fleet Services team in the garage and with the Quartermaster since April 2022. His work has made a substantial impact on the Barrie Police Service team.
Corporate Communications Coordinator Peter Leon of the BPS emphasized Nick’s hard work, and how that has allowed him to quickly become a key part of their team. Nicholas decided to get involved with the Barrie Police Service because of his previous involvement with Special Olympics and the Law Enforcement Torch Run. In fact, Nicholas has braved the cold and participated in three previous Polar Plunge events in Barrie!
Nicholas was excited to begin working in an environment where he would be helping others, working within a familiar community, and learning new skills. His favourite part of his job is working in the auto shop helping service police vehicles. Nick stated that he is “so happy to be working in this environment!”
Leon adds that Special Olympics has opened the door to Nick’s involvement with the Barrie Police Service and has allowed him to hit the ground running creating new relationships and building connections he had previously established as an athlete in the community. Looking ahead, Nicholas is hoping to continue progressing within the Barrie Police Service and hopes to one day go on the police boat on Lake Simcoe and work with the Marine officers.
The Barrie Police Service is thrilled to have Nicholas on their team. His positive attitude, work ethic, and friendliness are greatly appreciated. As Nicholas continues working with the Barrie Police Service, building skills and meeting new people, his growth within the organization is imminent.
When he is not working hard with the Barrie Police, Nicholas is working hard as a Special Olympics Athlete where he competes in track and field, floor hockey, basketball, soccer and baseball. His strong athletic abilities and determination have helped him win an astounding ten gold medals! Thank you, Nicholas, for your dedication and hard work!