Larissa Chovan’s journey is one filled with dedication, independence, and community involvement.
While attending Elk River High School, Larissa was enrolled in the special needs program. Through the school’s work experience program, Larissa gained valuable skills while working at Guardian Angels Care Center. There she learned dietary aide responsibilities and assisted residents by helping deliver meals, bussing tables, cleaning the dining room, and washing dishes. Prior to the Dietary, she helped in the Activities Department with transferring residents to and from activities and assisting activity leaders run activities.
After graduating in 1998, Larissa was offered a part-time position at Guardian Angels. Within two years, she transitioned to full-time employment, where she worked for five years.
Larissa eventually moved from her parents’ home in Rogers into her own townhome in Elk River, where she has lived for 23 years. Though she has had roommates at times, she mainly enjoys living independently with support from in-home staff who help with meals, cleaning, transportation, and other daily tasks.
Active in her community, Larissa began participating in activities through Community Education in 1999, enjoying bingo, crafts, food prep, boat rides, and picnics. In 2000, she joined Elk River Special Olympics, where she became a dedicated athlete in bowling, softball, volleyball, basketball, and track—competing in both regional and state tournaments. Being part of a team has helped Larissa build confidence, self-esteem, social skills, and friendships. She is also involved with “I am ME,” where she can enjoy being included in many other fun events and activities.
Larissa’s Special Olympics journey has brought her incredible opportunities. In 2006, she competed at the Special Olympics National Games in Ames, Iowa, participating in the long jump and shot put. The following year, Minnesota was selected to form a girls’ basketball team to represent Team USA at the Special Olympics World Games in China. Out of many who tried out, Larissa was one of 12 athletes chosen.
Her “Team USA” athletes had the honor of being featured at and performing at the Minnesota Lynx and Timberwolves halftime shows, traveled to Nashville to scrimmage against Kentucky’s girls’ team, and even enjoyed a one-on-one interview Larissa did with Olympic skater Scott Hamilton. In September 2007, the team traveled to Beijing, where they were welcomed with ceremonies, sightseeing, and celebrations before competing against 3 other teams including Russia and Greece. Larissa fondly remembers this once-in-a-lifetime experience — though she jokes the food wasn’t her favorite.
Larissa’s employment journey has also been a source of pride. With the support of Options Employment Services, she started working at Godfather’s Pizza in Otsego in 2003. There, she thrived in customer service, dishwashing, and janitorial tasks, earning the affectionate nickname “Shorty” from the owner and customers alike. When the restaurant closed in 2011, many shared how much they would miss her friendly presence.
Larissa then worked with S & L Cleaning at the Elk River Post Office before joining Pizza Ranch in 2012, where she still works today. She continues to be a familiar and well-loved member of the staff, known fondly by many regulars still as “Shorty.”
Reflecting on her journey, Larissa shares how grateful she is for the support she has received from Options in finding and maintaining meaningful employment. Both Larissa and her mother have expressed how important it has been to have someone walking alongside her through challenges and celebrations.
Larissa’s story is one of independence, resilience, and joy—her positive spirit continues to inspire those around her every day.
