STATEHOUSE – State Representatives Alan Morrison (R-Terre Haute) and Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) joined House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis), legislators, staff and other state office holders in donating sporting equipment and other items to Special Olympics of Indiana today at the Statehouse. “Special Olympics Indiana is honored to be chosen by Speaker Bosma for Organization Day. Research has found that individuals with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics become more involved in their communities. Our over 11,000 athletes throughout Indiana live, work and vote in almost every county throughout the state,” said Special Olympics Indiana CEO/President Michael Furnish. The organization is a nonprofit that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. These athletes represent 74 county and local programs each run by volunteer management teams who recruit participants, conduct sports training, raise money, build awareness and compete at local and state events. “Roughly three million athletes with intellectual disabilities receive support from Special Olympics, and without state or federal assistance, the organization relies primarily on donations and the selflessness of volunteers,” said Rep. Morrison. “I believe the donations brought today, which included a large gift from Pacesetter Sports in Terre Haute, is our way of saying thank you for the amount of hours that such a warm staff provides to support these incredible Hoosier athletes.” Legislators and staff brought in sporting equipment, food, drinks, office supplies, and other items for Special Olympics of Indiana. Five athletes were present to accept the donations and thank those who participated in the collection efforts. “It was great to see the amount of support for such a wonderful organization that certainly invests a lot of time and energy to some of the most precious members in our community,” said Rep. Heaton. “Special Olympics of Indiana truly has an amazing cause, and with the holidays around the corner and a need present, I was privileged to help an organization that really gives so much more in return.” For more information on Special Olympics of Indiana, visit www.soindiana.org. -30- |
