Click here to pledge to end the use of the R-Word

r-word

Countdown to State Fall Games:

2011-11-04 9:00:00 GMT-05:00!

November 4

Countdown to Polar Plunge Aquatica:

2012-01-21 9:00:00 GMT-05:00!

January 21, 2012

Click here to view full event calendar.

Ledger Articles

Zachary Briggs

Zachary Briggs was named Homecoming King at George Jenkins High School where he is an ESE student. Click to read more.

"R-Word" Campaign in Polk

McHugh is bringing the Special Olympics' national campaign into Polk schools with the motto: "Spread the word to end the word." Click to read more. 

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.


ESPN Wide World of Sports After Fall State Games in November

Special Olympics Florida's third TV show of 2011 will air on ESPN Wide World of Sports 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.

2012 Special Olympics Florida Polar Plunge

Polar PluncgePresented by the
Florida Professional Firefighters
January 21, 2012 at Aquatica

Go to TEAMS, then find "Polk Guard-N-Hose"
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Check out the video of last year's Plunge!


Help Support Special Olympics

Procter and Gamble has been a supporter of Special Olympics for 32 years.  Use the brandSAVER™ coupons found in your local paper on Sunday, January 1 and Procter and Gamble will donate a portion of every coupon redeemed to Special Olympics. And while buying your favorite P&G products at your local Publix January 5 - 25, show you’re a fan of Special Olympics by purchasing your very own paper torch at the check-out register for $1, $3, $5 or $10 to support your local Special Olympics athletes!


APDAgencies for Persons with Disabilities

http://apd.myflorida.com/


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.