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Countdown to County Fall Games:

2010-9-11 9:00:00 GMT-05:00!

September 11

Countdown to Area Fall Games:

2010-09-25 9:00:00 GMT-05:00!

September 25

Coming Events

  • County Fall Games - September 11
  • Area Fall Games - September 25

Click here to view full event calendar.

 

Her Legacy Continues

Our Founder: Eunice Kennedy Shriver

Through a vision born in her own backyard, Shriver changed the lives of millions, brought together war-torn nations, and helped create a world of acceptance for the largest disability population in the world.

 

Volunteers Needed!

We have several opportunities for you to help Special Olympics Polk. Positions needed: Fundraising Committee, Fundraising Chair, Competition Chair, Family Chair

Also desperately need volunteers to help with filing. Please contact Kimberly McHugh at 863-934-0261.


Fall Games on Sun Sports After Fall State Games in November

SunSports

Special Olympics Florida's third TV show of 2010 will air on Sun Sports network throughout May. This show will recap the State Summer Games.

These half-hour programs will be closed captioned for hearing impaired viewers. As always, be sure to check your local listings for exact times and dates and for additional broadcast dates.

Message From Our County Coordinator

Our volunteers are the foundation of Special Olympics Polk (SOPC) and the results of their dedication and efforts can be seen in the smiles of our athletes! Words cannot express the gratitude and appreciation I have for all who are a part of SOPC. I encourage you to become a part of our mission, whether you are a volunteer, unified partner, family member, or athlete. Please consider contributing to our community of champions! I challenge you to consider what you can do to help..no matter how big or small - your efforts will make a difference in the lives of many!
Kimberly McHugh, County Coordinator

Did You KnowSpecial Olympics is a global nonprofit organization targeting the nearly 200 million people round the world who have intellectual disabilities.

Our Mission

The mission of Special Olympics POLK is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for people with intellectual disabilities who wish to participate, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.

Polar Plunge!

Polar PluncgeHelp Special Olympics Polk County as they SPLASH into Special Olympics Florida POLAR PLUNGE at AQUATICA on January 22, 2011!

Click here to help support Polk's Special Oplympics

Then look up Polk's team: Polk's Polar Paws
You may then choose a specific person on the team or just click on the County Coordinator, Kimberly McHugh

First Annual Kayaking Fundraiser

Kayaking Fundraiser

On April 10, 2010 the first annual Kayaking Fundraiser was held to raise money for uniforms, training, competition, food, and sporting equipment for Polk County Special Olympic athletes. There are currently around 500 athletes in Polk County. Special Olympics is a non-profit organization and all events are offered to athletes at no cost to the families. Special thanks to everyone who made a donation and to the following Kayaking Fundraiser participants:

Kimberly McHugh, Ruth Lee, Gib Holt, Steve Cochran, Gene Albrigo, Deborah and Gene Tregler, Dana Robertson, Dave and Dawn Seefeldt, Ansley Warner, Kate Moore, and Rich Wills

Special thanks to Civitan Club of Auburndale who kicked off this fundraiser with a generous donation of $500.

2008 Torch Run

2009 Torch Run

Be a fan...

Special Olympics' new, nationwide "Be a fan" public education campaign is designed to send a powerful message that resonates with the people of all walks of life by tapping into core values and attributes that everyone can appreciate, like unity, acceptance, empowerment, dignity, courage, strength, pride, confidence and fun. Click the play button below to watch the video.