Way of the Heart: Built on Belonging

“Way of the Heart” is an annual special event that is part of GUSR, a program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Gonzaga University. It is one of the most meaningful gatherings of the year, bringing together participants and GUSR student volunteers for a shared experience centered on inclusion, celebration, and community. The event is known for its welcoming atmosphere and its focus on honoring abilities, building friendships, and creating lasting connections.

Each year, Way of the Heart blends structured programming with joyful, spontaneous moments that make the experience memorable for everyone involved. This year was no exception.

During regular Thursday programming, the Gonzaga Bomb Squad joined the group and delivered an energetic performance that immediately filled the space with excitement. Participants and student volunteers cheered, clapped, and danced along, fully engaged in the moment. Bomb Squad also included an obligatory dance session featuring “Thunderstruck” and invited participants to the floor to dance. The performance set a celebratory tone that carried through the rest of programming.

After the performance, everyone gathered for ice cream and relaxed activities. Students and participants spent time together talking, laughing, and enjoying simple moments of connection. These quieter parts of the evening were just as meaningful, giving space for relationships to grow naturally and comfortably.

On Sunday, participants and student volunteers attended a Gonzaga Baseball game together. The experience brought everyone into the larger Gonzaga community, where they cheered on the Gonzaga Bulldogs baseball team alongside other fans. The sounds of the game, the shared excitement, and the group energy in the stands made it a memorable outing. Students and participants sat together, enjoying the game as a unified group.

Each participant was able to select a snack and drink of their choice, meet Spike and grab a picture, and wear specially designed Way of the Heart GUSR matching t-shirts at the game.

By the end of the weekend, Way of the Heart had once again created something lasting. It strengthened relationships, deepened connections between GUSR participants and Gonzaga students, and highlighted the importance of inclusion in everyday life.