The Southern California Special Olympics Program is asking community members to donate unused gift cards to help with the financial cost of running its programs.
The Special Olympics is a year-round program funded directly from the community’s pocket to help give people with disabilities a chance to show their stuff and compete against other athletes throughout the area.
As the Special Olympics celebrates its 40th anniversary, it’s also looking for new ways to help the community get more involved with the program. It’s also keeping thinning pocketbooks in mind, thus the request for unused gift cards.
“There is no end time for this program,” said Rudy Gutierrez, operations coordinator for the Southern California Special Olympics. “We plan for it to be ongoing, with all proceeds being used toward the local Santa Maria and Lompoc Special Olympics, and also providing aid for the athletes that need it.”
When considering gift cards, think of sports stores, grocery stores, office supply shops, clothing outlets, gas stations, and hotel stays.
The Special Olympics is a volunteer-based program with an aim to change lives through the power of sports. The group offers opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities to participate in year-round training and competition.
Re-gifted cards can be mailed or delivered to the Special Olympics Northern Santa Barbara County office at 615 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 93454.
For more information on Special Olympics or to get involved, contact Rudy Gutierrez at 925-0951, Ext. 353.
Intern Gabby Hendriksen compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Jun 18-25, 2009.