These young athletes have always held a special place in our heart, which is why our Moose Riders assist with other events throughout the year for them like the annual Special Olympics Rev It Up Ride in Mount Pleasant and by providing lunches at the Special Olympics Field Meet in Ithaca.
MICHIGAN SPECIAL OLYMPICS
THE MISSION - Special Olympics Michigan’s (SOMI) mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills, and friendships with their families, other Special Olympic athletes, and the community.
THE GOAL - To help persons with intellectual disabilities participate as productive and respected members of society at large, by offering them a fair opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills and talents through sports training and competition, and by increasing the public’s awareness of their capabilities and needs.
THE BENEFITS - Athletes who participate in Special Olympics improve physical fitness and motor skills, develop self-esteem and confidence, make friends, and increase family support. Special Olympics athletes carry these benefits with them into their daily lives at home, in the classroom and on the job. Families become stronger as they learn a greater appreciation of their athlete’s abilities and community volunteers find out what a good friend athletes can be.
FUNDING - Special Olympics Michigan is a non-profit organization supported almost entirely by private funding. The generosity of organizations, individuals, and businesses enable the program to continue.
VOLUNTEERS - Thousands of volunteers contribute their time, energy, and expertise to make the Special Olympics program a reality in Michigan. All areas rely on the dedicated support of volunteers who offer their time and talents in a number of ways, including coaching, chaperoning athletes at events, assisting with fundraising, and helping run local events and games.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS - Special Olympics Michigan training and competition is open to every person with intellectual disabilities who registers to participate in Special Olympics as required by the Special Olympics General Rules.
MICHIGAN SPECIAL OLYMPICS - AREA 7 FACTS
Area 7 has 196 athletes.
Area 7 offers the following sports programs: Alpine Skiing, Athletics, Basketball, Bocce Bowling, Cross-Country Skiing, Horseshoes, Poly Hockey, Snowshoeing, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Unified Sports, and Volleyball.
GEOGRAPHICAL AREA - Special Olympic programs are offered in all 83 counties in Michigan. Area 7 encompasses all of Clare, Isabella, Galdwin and Gratiot Counties.
AREA CONTACTS - If interested in becoming involved or if seeking further information, please email us at area07@somi.org