[MENA, ARK. – FEB. 24] The date is set and athletes are already training for the upcoming Area 14 Special Olympics! On April 4, Mena will once again host the Special Olympics, giving local and surrounding athletes an opportunity to compete in a variety of events. Key to the event’s success is the volunteers who come out each year to offer their assistance and show their support to these talented athletes. This year’s event committee is chaired by Linda Rowe.
If you are interested in assisting as a volunteer with the event in Mena on April 4, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Jeanette Berry at jberry@rmcc.edu or by calling 479-234-9189. A training session for all volunteers will be held March 20 at Bearcat Stadium at 5:30 p.m.
The Track & Field event that will be held locally at Bearcat Stadium will feature approximately 67 events and will attract between 150-200 athletes so the local event committee is counting on the support of the local community in terms of donations and volunteers to make the event a memorable one for these dedicated Olympians.
The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. They are given continuing training to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and share personal skills, gifts of spirit, and friendship with their families, their fellow Special Olympics athletes, and the world. “Volunteers receive more than they give,” said Rowe.
“Every Olympian portrays the Special Olympics motto – Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. It is a joy and a blessing to have these games in Mena because people of our community are so giving and committed to helping others. The planning committee is totally dedicated to making these games the best and our volunteers are vital to achieving this goal.”
About Author
Jeri Pearson
Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.
More Stories
Second Annual Down Syndrome 5k Run & Walk
Arkansas State Police investigating Scott County homicide
Food Friday fundraisers