By Emily Rickerson | May 12, 2008

Every month the Magic and Fifth Third Bank selects a community member as the Fifth Third Bank Orlando Magic Maker for their dedication and significant contribution to the Orlando community. This month Nicole Harrold is recognized for her involvement and countless volunteer hours at the UCP (United Cerebral Palsy) of Central Florida’s Downtown Orlando/Holloway Center.

Diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth, Harrold volunteers at the UCP three days a week to help those children with similar needs. Her uplifting attitude and infectious smile lets the children know they can overcome their disabilities and live a happy and productive life. As a volunteer, Harrold helps the children obtain the necessary skills and abilities required to succeed in life.

During her time at UCP, Harrold helps with activities and events which include playing with children during center activities to help them develop social interaction skills, reading to the children during story time to help them develop speaking and listening skills, participating in golf tournaments and other fundraisers, assisting children during meals to help them develop good eating habits, and she often spreads the word about UCP and the children they serve to raise awareness of their cause.

When asked what her favorite part about volunteering at the UCP center, Harrold says she loves playing with the children and comforting them when they are upset. She said she enjoys “giving them lots and lots of love.”

“I like to do things to help people,” said Harrold. “I like to stay busy. I love little children and I have made a lot of friends by volunteering.”

This is not the first recognition that Harrold has received for her selfless acts. In July of 2006 Harrold received the Governor’s Points of Light Award, which honors a Florida resident or organization that demonstrates exemplary service to the community, for her outreach towards those with disabilities. She was afforded the opportunity to meet then-Governor Jeb Bush and was also given a congratulatory letter and a certificate acknowledging her leadership from Governor Bush.

Through Harrold’s compassion and generosity for helping others she has truly made a difference in young children’s lives at the UCP of Central Florida. With her tenacity to help children reach their full potential with a smile on her face and eagerness in her heart, Harrold is truly a Magic Maker.

Emily Rickerson is a communications intern for the Orlando Magic.