A Special Olympics Thanks
Posted by Tony Gilmore
We received this thank you letter for our work with Special Olympics this year.
December 11, 2007
As we near the end of a fantastic year highlighted by the World Summer Games in Shanghai, China, I thank you for your incredible support of the athletes and families of Special Olympics.
Beyond the joy that comes from year-round sports training and competition, over 2.5 million people with intellectual disabilities worldwide are experiencing the joy of newfound confidence and self-esteem, determination and friendships. None of this would be possible without the millions of fans, like you, who support us around the world in helping transform lives through sport.
Ryan Atkinson from the United States feels accepted, has friends and is no longer despondent and isolated at school. Najila Agha from Afghanistan knows the warmth of a global family very different from her daily life in an institution surrounded by war and conflict. Florence Nabayinda from Uganda is no longer considered a curse by her family and community, but recognized as an accomplished marathon runner, mother and co-worker. As important, thousands of passionate volunteers are seeing people with intellectual disabilities with a new perspective of inclusion and respect.
When even one Special Olympics athlete can compete with dignity, when even one can know the unbounded joy of achievement and acceptance, we rejoice both in that moment and in the life-changing example it sets for all of humanity.
Thank you,
Timothy Shriver
Chairman of the Board, Special Olympics
Beyond the joy that comes from year-round sports training and competition, over 2.5 million people with intellectual disabilities worldwide are experiencing the joy of newfound confidence and self-esteem, determination and friendships. None of this would be possible without the millions of fans, like you, who support us around the world in helping transform lives through sport.
Ryan Atkinson from the United States feels accepted, has friends and is no longer despondent and isolated at school. Najila Agha from Afghanistan knows the warmth of a global family very different from her daily life in an institution surrounded by war and conflict. Florence Nabayinda from Uganda is no longer considered a curse by her family and community, but recognized as an accomplished marathon runner, mother and co-worker. As important, thousands of passionate volunteers are seeing people with intellectual disabilities with a new perspective of inclusion and respect.
When even one Special Olympics athlete can compete with dignity, when even one can know the unbounded joy of achievement and acceptance, we rejoice both in that moment and in the life-changing example it sets for all of humanity.
Thank you,
Timothy Shriver
Chairman of the Board, Special Olympics