Stephen Burrill

Ever since I was a young boy I realized that people with disabilities are no different than you and me. My younger brother is autistic and because of that I have been able to develop a true passion for helping people with disabilities. I realized that although my brother had autism he had so many natural talents that he could show the world if the world just gave him the time he needed to show it. When I was younger I had noticed that some people just didn't know how to interact with my brother, whether it be my friends or adults. I realized that some people couldn't get past my brothers disability, and thus couldn’t get to experience all the great things that my brother brought to the table. My brother tuaght me how to have compassion, and how to put myself in others shoes before judging someone for their actions. He taught me respect and gratitude, and I use all these things that he taught me to be the best person I can be, whether it's in the workplace or when I am just hanging out with friends. My brother helped me realize that I wanted to help these people understand that its not about the disability, its about the ability.

Pi Kappa Phi has allowed me to give back to the community, and the biggest reason why is because of our philanthropy: The Ability Experience. The Ability Experience is our nonprofit philanthropy that allows us to raise money and create awareness for people with disabilities. When I first became a brother of Pi Kappa Phi I was immediately attracted to the Ability Experience. I wanted to do something to give back to the community, and do something that would further awareness so people like my brother would get a chance to show the world what they are capable of achieving. So I decided to join the Ability Experience team, where I helped plan our 36 hour bike-a-thon. I helped market the event, as well as set up various activities to go along with it such as a raffle and a free throw competition. Ultimately the event was a huge success and we were able to generate a ton of awareness and $1,500 in revenue which all went to the Ability Experience.

Ultimately, my brother and the Ability Experience helped me realize that everyone is unique in their own way, and although we may not always understand that, we should always respect it. My brother has made such a huge difference in my life, so my main goal is give back so that people say the same about me: that I made a big difference in their life.