Our 2019 Volunteer of the Year: Racheal Smetana

As a graduate student, Racheal Smetana was required to complete a 6-month internship with a non-profit. As fate would have it, she was assigned to Dare2tri.

“It was a randomly assigned internship, and I had very little knowledge that I was joining such a loving and dynamic organization,” Racheal said.

Five years have passed since her internship ended, but Racheal has never stopped giving her time and talent to Dare2tri. To this day, she remains an active volunteer and a cherished member of the Dare2tri family.

The most profound aspect of Dare2tri is the sense of community.

Racheal Smetana

Since becoming a volunteer, Racheal has worn just about every hat imaginable. She has taken on roles as both a sighted guide and handler. She has volunteered at virtually every Dare2tri event, from Multisport Clinic to Kids Camp. And when she’s not volunteering at a race, she’s probably participating — and very likely sporting her Dare2tri gear. For her outstanding service and dedication, Racheal was named Dare2tri’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year.

“From day one, I have felt like I was a part of the Dare2tri family, and I have heard other athletes and volunteers say the same thing,” Racheal said. “When you spend your time with this organization — whether you are an athlete, a volunteer, or a coach — you become an integral part of the community.”