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Olympics are coming

The Special Olympics British Columbia are coming to Vernon in a little more than two months. 

Thousands of athletes, trainers families and fans will be visiting Vernon for the three-day event Feb 21, 22 and 23.  

The games forever changed the lives of thousands of athletes who have participates and thousands more who aspire to be Olympians. 

"Fifty years ago, a beacon of hope was ignited for people with intellectual disabilities. Previously cast in the shadows and shunned by society, the first Special Olympics Games in 1968 gave individuals with intellectual disabilities a place to shine," stated Meg Ishida fundraising coordinator. "It started a movement that broke down barriers, challenged stereotypes, and shone a light towards inclusion and acceptance."

The event is an exciting and empowering experience for Special Olympics athletes. For many, these Games offer their first opportunity to experience travelling and being part of a team.
 
"Thanks to your support, this movement continues today. Every day in communities throughout our province, Special Olympics BC athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and supporters are changing the world through the power and joy of sport. Special Olympics continues to show that everyone can be a champion when obstacles like stigma and prejudice are removed and people are given a chance."

The 2019 games will be the largest SOBC Winter Games to date, with a new sport being added to the roster: five-pin bowling is moving from summer to winter, joining Alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, floor hockey, snowshoeing and speed skating.

To make the event a success, 1,000 volunteers are needed.

The goal is to get 500 people signed up by the end of 2018.

Volunteer forms can be found here.

SOBC is thanking all the volunteers who have given their time and encouraging the other would-be volunteers to sign up. 
 
"We encourage you to read our 2018 SOBC year-end newsletter and check out this video showing how Special Olympics unleashes the human spirit every day, throughout the world," stated Ishida
 
"We are so grateful for your involvement and wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season."



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