Special Olympics

Special Olympics contributes to the physical, social, and psychological development of athletes with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Through successful experiences in sports, they gain confidence and build a positive self-image which carries over into the classroom, home, job and community.
The concept of Special Olympics began in the early 1960's when Eunice Kennedy Shriver started a day camp for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The first national meet was held at Soldier Field in Chicago in 1968 for 1,000 athletes from the United States and Canada.

In Belmont County, athletes compete at local, regional and state levels in basketball, track and field, bocce and bowling. They are supported in their endeavors by Special Olympics Belmont County, a non-profit organization created in 2011. It is accredited by Special Olympics Ohio and operates under its guidelines.

Special Olympics Belmont County exists entirely on donations and sponsorships. All donations, which are tax-deductible, remain local and directly benefit the athletes who compete for Belmont County. Those who wish to support Special Olympics Belmont County can do so in the following ways:

ADOPT-AN-ATHLETE PROGRAM
$225 per Athlete
It costs a little over $225 per athlete, per sport, for things like uniforms, supplies, transportation, meals, specialized supervision, medication handling, lodging for State competitions, and coaching.

ANNUAL SPONSORSHIPS
SPONSORSHIP LEVELS
BRONZE $500 to $2,499
SILVER $2,500 to $4,999
GOLD $5,000 to $9,999
PLATINUM $10,000 or more

PATRONS
Donations that do not meet the Adopt-an-Athlete Program or Sponsorship criteria will be listed as Patrons in all programs.

For more information or to donate, contact
Tom King, Local Coordinator, at 740.359.7432.
Donations, with checks payable to Special Olympics Ohio-Belmont County, may also be mailed to Special Olympics Belmont County, c/o 66730 Pogue Rd., St. Clairsville, OH 43950.