As we enter into December and the holiday season, Special Olympics Southern California is launching a month-long campaign that celebrates the “gift of SOSC.”
Who better than those directly impacted by the mission – the athletes – to share how Special Olympics has made a positive change in their lives. We’ll be doing that through a series of stories throughout the month on here, as well as video clips on our social media channels. Here’s just a few things various athletes have to say about their experience with Special Olympics and how it has shaped their attitude.
“I love competing. I’ve learned good sportsmanship and that I love getting exercise.” – Danielle Moore, 26, Pomona Valley tennis player who also enjoys basketball and softball
“[I’ve learned to] work hard and try your best, and it all paid off.” – Jose Conde, 20, Los Angeles soccer player who played on the L.A. Galaxy Unified team and was selected to the Special Olympics Unified All-Star Game
“How do you know until you play? Just try it.” – Juan Aleman, 30, Ventura County athlete who played basketball, bowling, soccer and softball in 2017, and already has his sights set on the addition of flag football next year
VIDEO: More Athletes and Families on the Gift of SOSC
Special Olympics provides free sports training and programs to athletes with intellectual disabilities. Here’s how your contribution can help the more than 31,400 athletes in our footprint:
- Facilities
- Health screenings
- Sports equipment
- Transportation
- Uniforms
- And more!
So, we’re asking you to help us continue to deliver more of those experiences and amenities to athletes across our nine regions. Give the gift of SOSC.
Other ways to contribute and show support
AmazonSmile: As you’re browsing through Amazon this holiday season, consider going to smile.amazon.com and selecting Special Olympics Southern California as your charity of choice. The Amazon Smiles Foundation will make a donation for every eligible purchase made, at no cost to you. AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know – same products, same prices, same service.
Rafer’s Boutique: You’ve seen our shop at Summer and Fall Games. You can find more of the same great swag online, too. Visit our official online store at SOSC.org/shop.
In lieu of gifts: Honor a loved one and make a contribution to Special Olympics in their name.
Inside the SOSC is a blog written by staff member Tracy McDannald. It is a more feature-style approach to looking inside what makes Special Olympics Southern California so unique, so special. It is meant to explore the people and their stories. One word at a time.