Although some people are familiar with the Special Olympics, I want to tell you my favorite things about this organization. 

Dedication

I was asked to join this Amazing Club called The Best Buddies while I was in high school.

The Best Buddies was a club in high school that allowed general education students to work with athletes during the school year to train.

True dedication was shown during every sporting event! There are many memories of those beautiful events.

In Soccer, I remember seeing some of the happiest kids on the planet. They gave so much dedication and effort to their event.

Along with the kids and buddies being dedicated, many staff members showed significant commitment to the Special Olympics. Many of the staff spent countless hours planning training sessions for the athletes and planning events with the county/area. 

Community Involvement

As a Special Olympics buddy, I was honored to be able to help and participate with the athletes.

One thing I realized about the Special Olympics is the community involvement aspect. This organization is heavily involved with the community.

For example, at almost every event many community members were present, including;

• Law Enforcement
• Local Business Owners
• EMT
• Community School Board Members

I’m so impressed by the amount of the community that volunteers their time to each of the events.

I also noticed that every year, the local law enforcement participated within a state Torch Run that helps to raise awareness and money for the Special Olympics.

Along with the Torch Run, they also do a Polar Plunge event every winter to raise awareness and money. The Polar Plunge even includes individuals of all walks/careers/communities come and plunge into the freezing cold water.

This event in Virginia last year raised $1.23 Million to help the state of Virginia’s Special Olympics Organization. 

Dynamic 

The Special Olympics organization is VERY Dynamic.

For example, did you know they actually have events in which athletes travel the world to compete? They also have many of the same Olympic events as the World Olympics.

Not only are they dynamic by Sporting options and events, but they also have many dynamic volunteers and supporters. Many of the polar plunge participants were not necessarily full volunteers since the organization has different classifications for volunteers. 

Family

This organization is one big family.

I grew up in a county where we were all like family. In each of the events, I felt that I was just helping a sibling or family member participate in seasonal sports.

In college, I volunteered with an adult bowling group and felt like I was helping an aunt or uncle to learn to bowl. As a teacher, I have been able to raise money through the Polar Plunge Event.

In the last ten years, I have truly enjoyed having this incredible family. 

The Special Olympics can truly change you and your families life…

This organization has been impacting and providing opportunities for athletes to shine in sporting events, and you should join the family!