For Bikem Oskin, volunteering with Special Olympics Pennsylvania is truly a family affair.
Her journey started when her husband joined the Summer Games planning committee. What began as attending events with her son quickly turned into stepping up and getting involved herself.
“I figured instead of sitting at home, I could do something useful,” she said.
Now, nearly a decade later, Bikem plays a key behind the scenes role, helping coordinate volunteers and support event logistics. From managing housing to assisting with opening ceremony planning, she helps ensure everything runs smoothly.
Her impact goes beyond her own work. Her husband leads operations for the Games, and her son, who has been attending since he was eight, now leads a team of student volunteers running water and ice trucks.
“It is his absolute favorite thing to do,” Bikem shared. “Even his birthday, he wants to spend at Summer Games.”
Whether it is handing out ice cream, connecting with athletes, or simply taking in the joy of the weekend, Bikem says it’s the people who make it special.
“It just gives you the warm fuzzies,” she said.
This year, she is taking on an exciting new role as an Assistant Head of Delegation for the 2026 USA Games.
“It is a huge honor,” she said. “I am just really excited.”
Bikem’s story is a reminder that showing up can turn into something bigger than you ever expected, and in her case, something her whole family now shares.
