I am proud to announce that Vermont Systems is once again our key sponsor of “Abilities Outweigh Disabilities.” Over 20 years ago, I helped a grandmother, Sandy Willey, watch her grandchildren during the summer. Her husband, Robert Willey, founded Vermont Systems. Robert Willey works alongside many of his relatives, including his three children, Giles, Kate, and Laurie, and some of the grandchildren I used to watch.
Once Kayla turned 8, she began to participate in Special Olympics soccer. Practice was held at the Willey Farm in Essex, and the head coach was Giles Willey. The property brought back many memories. The delightful gardens that surrounded the property with no weeds in sight. The big red barn that was located at the back of the property. The fenced in pool that was always clean. And the famous handmade swing set that I spent hours at during the week. Several kids from soccer ended up using it. Unfortunately, Kayla utilized it a little too much the first year of soccer and continued to love it the second year. It is actually a major distraction for her, but I chuckle because that swing set definitely was a fantastic investment.
I have wonderful memories of those summers with the Willeys. The routines, the swing set, the love, and “Nanny’s” famous chocolate chip cookies (which are a staple at our house). The core values of hard work, love, acceptance, and the importance of family and community come across within the entire Willey family and Vermont Systems. To honor them at our event, “Nanny’s” famous chocolate chip cookies will be available. Remember, you are only allowed 1 cookie, just like all the grandchildren were allowed.