Special Olympics

Definition of

special [spesh-uhl] adjective;  distinguished, distinctive; important in own way

Volunteering at Special Olympics this Spring, was a wonderful way to give a little of ourselves.  My focus was on what my girls would get out of it.  I hadn’t expected to be the receiver of the blessing.

Special Olympics began as a backyard program during the summer for people with intellectual disabilities in 1968.  Now all disabilities are included and it has transformed lives and attitudes.  As a global mission, there are over 3 million athletes in over 180 countries.

History:

“It all began in the early 1960s, when Eunice Kennedy Shriver saw how unjustly and unfairly people with intellectual disabilities were treated. She also saw that many children with special needs didn’t even have a place to play. She decided to take action.

Soon, her vision began to take shape, as she held a summer day camp for young people with intellectual disabilities in her own backyard. The goal was to learn what these children could do in sports and other activities – and not dwell on what they could not do. This vision eventually grew into the global Special Olympics movement.”

Now, THAT IS an awesome example of THE POWER OF ONE!

This…..

is the power of a few homeschool moms and their kids…..

The opening ceremonies were awesome.  (Click at top right to pause music and click below to listen to “Chariots of Fire” theme that played at the running of the torch.)  It is almost like being there!

 

This little guy was so excited to run with the torch, we thought he just might bust!   I know our momma’s hearts almost burst.  I held my breath waiting for them to round the bend.

We cheered like crazy!

Now that is a genuine smile.

Abigail with her precious buddy rockin’ that extra chromosome!  She could hardly keep up with her!

Who doesn’t like face painting?

Receiving her medal, my buddy was beaming all over.  I was too, like a proud momma.

These children were amazing.  It was a beautiful experience.

You, too, are the power of one!  What was your experience with Special Olympics like?  Any other ideas for volunteering?  I would LOVE to hear them!