Today we’d like to introduce you to Jim Sayih
Hi Jim, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My son Michael was born, diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Doctors recommended he be institutionalized. I told them Michael will be included in everything and live a life filled with abundance. To date Michael has graduated from high school, is employed by the Miami Dolphins and the Florida Panthers. He was recently appointed by Governor DeSantis to the Board of Directors on the Florida Developmental Disability Council. Michael is also the President of the Non-Profit Special Compass.As a young parent I had to manage devoting my time to Michael and share it with his older brother. During those years we partici
pated in community races together, including Michael. After years of community engagements we decided to formalize our efforts which led to the creation of Special Compass. To date we have raced in hundreds of events, building friendships and community building relationships. Over the years we identified volunteers who love our mission. They later became our Board of Directors and Ambassadors. We are currently planning to build a 60 unit apartment complex for the disabled to live independently. We are including programs and services, free. Special Compass is a 100% volunteer based organization. No salaries are given to our staff, including me and Michael.
Michael has gone white water rafting, skydiving and race in 7 Ironman triathlons. He will complete his 6th major marathon in Tokyo March 2025 with his best friend Max Fink to earn 6 star major marathons.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Serving those with disabilities has its obstacles. This is one of the reasons why Michael and I are advocates. The main struggles are Education, Employment, Transportation and Housing. Each of these have their own myriad of challenges but the good news is we are making progress through Policy Making and education.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
- I served 6 years active duty Air Force then joined the Miami Police dept where I served 20 years. I retired as a police lieutenant with multiple commendations
- I graduated from FIU with a masters in sports science.
- I created the National 911 Fitness Challenge, a body transformation contest for police fire and military. Proceeds from the event benefited Shriners Children’s hospital. Over 6,000 participants entered every year for 20 years. I also owned and operated 911 CrossFit for 10 years and owned and operated OrangeTheory in Palm Beach for 6 years. I sold them both to fully commit to leading Special Compass.
- I co- authored two best selling books. One with Jack Canfield and the other with United Men of Honor.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Martial arts in judo, played football in high school. Was very active, friendly and served others. Bike riding in the neighborhood and motocross. Working at McDonalds, Pasquale’s, and Weight lifting
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.SpecialCompass.Org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimsayih/
- Facebook: JimSayih
Original Article: https://voyagemia.com/interview/check-out-jim-sayihs-story