Her Story
About Lori Lane
Lori Lane Pendleton is a dedicated nonprofit leader, disability advocate, and longtime volunteer who has devoted nearly two decades to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As the Volunteer Area Director for Special Olympics Nevada, she provides leadership for volunteer programs throughout the Greater Las Vegas area by recruiting and mentoring coaches, coordinating year-round sports opportunities, supporting fundraising efforts, and building meaningful relationships with athletes, families, schools, and community partners. Her expertise in people management, volunteer leadership, and community engagement has helped create an inclusive environment where athletes are empowered to grow, compete, and thrive.
Pendleton's passion for advocacy was born from personal adversity. Following a life-changing workplace injury in 1995 that resulted in a disability, she transformed her experience into a lifelong commitment to serving others. Her dedication deepened through raising a young man with fetal alcohol syndrome while continuing to support individuals with intellectual disabilities through organizations such as Special Olympics Nevada, the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada, and Lifelong Dreams. Drawing upon empathy, resilience, and lived experience, she has become a respected mentor who encourages others to recognize the limitless potential within every individual.
Throughout her years of service, Pendleton has been recognized with the President's Volunteer Service Award for eight consecutive years and was eligible to receive the President's Lifetime Volunteer Service Award before the program was temporarily paused. She was also selected as an Optionals Judge for the American Pageants National Competition and recognized as one of the Influential Women of 2026. Guided by her personal mission to always be part of something greater than herself, she continues to inspire others through volunteerism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion, compassion, and community service.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lori Lane
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the encouragement of mentors who believed in me and helped me rediscover my confidence after a life-changing work injury. Their support inspired me to recognize my own strengths and dedicate my life to serving others. My experiences have taught me that purpose, compassion, perseverance, and a commitment to helping others create meaningful and lasting impact.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to keep an open mind and be willing to explore opportunities they may not have previously considered. Life often becomes much greater than the vision we initially have for ourselves. Share your unique gifts, talents, and compassion with others, because making a positive difference in someone's life is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. By becoming part of something greater than yourself, you will challenge your abilities, discover your purpose, and unlock your unlimited potential.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges is encouraging more people to embrace volunteerism and recognize the tremendous value it brings to individuals and communities alike. At the same time, there are incredible opportunities to become involved with organizations that promote inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Volunteering creates stronger communities, fosters acceptance, and allows each of us to contribute to something much larger than ourselves while making a lasting impact on the lives of others.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value inclusion, compassion, service, unconditional love, perseverance, purpose, and respect for every individual. I believe every person deserves to be heard, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Leading with kindness and creating opportunities for others to succeed are principles that guide both my personal life and my volunteer leadership.
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