Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Special Olympics Southern California has found ways to continue its essential health, wellness, fitness, and educational programming virtually, and now, it will continue the celebration with a Fall Extravaganza. The Extravaganza will feature several engaging virtual events during October and November to inspire athletes, volunteers, and supporters to get moving and active.
The Extravaganza will take place from October 26 – November 14 and will include a Ceremony, Virtual Torch Run, Mega Auction, Virtual Bingo, and Athlete & Volunteer Dance. The events are inclusive so invite your friends, family, neighbors, and more because SOSC will have an activity for everyone! Learn more at https://www.sosc.org/extravaganza.
With all fall events and competitions being cancelled due to the COVID-19 health crisis, SOSC is still creating options for athletes and supporters to get moving, remain active, and socialize with peers.
Virtual programs have helped SOSC athletes stay active and interact with one another, which is very crucial during these times.
“I think it’s very cool that we can do stuff that is still virtual, and we can still raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics,” said SOSC athlete and Board Member Joseph Gorin. “I love Special Olympics because I love to play sports, but I do like to hang out with my friends and have fun together. It’s very important because it helps us to keep engaged with each other and stay in shape with our virtual programming.”
Mega Auction — October 26 – November 21
The Fall Extravaganza will kick off on October 26 with the Mega Auction. SOSC will coordinate its first Mega Auction through online bidding. The auction will feature exciting items, such as a signed basketball from NBA champion Kyle Kuzma and a Temecula Valley wine country hot air balloon flight. Bidding begins on October 26. Visit the Mega Auction website at sosc.org/megaauction to donate, sign-up, and browse items.
Virtual Torch Run — November 1-15
Each year, 1,200 officers run nearly 900 miles and through 200 Southern California communities to champion acceptance and inclusion. Due to the pandemic, the 2020 Torch Run for Special Olympics Southern California will takes on a new twist. The run will happen virtually from November 1 – 15. Make sure to post to social media by using the hashtag #SoCalTorchRun. Concluding the Virtual Torch Run is the online Closing Ceremony on November 15 at 10 a.m. For more information, visit sosc.org/torchrun. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest public awareness vehicle and grassroots fundraiser with more than 3,500 officers in Southern California championing acceptance and inclusion.
Virtual Bingo
Keep calm and bingo on! Come join one of the four, hour-long bingo games SOSC will host on Mondays in November. You can join from the comfort of your home as games will take place on Zoom. Be a part of this unified experience with Special Olympics Southern California. Visit https://www.sosc.org/fall/bingo for more information.
Virtual Ceremony & Dance — November 14
Mark your calendars for the Virtual Ceremony on November 14 at 10 a.m. There will be exciting guest speakers, musical performances, and more during this fun and festive ceremony. The fun doesn’t stop there, though! Join us later in the day from 6-8 p.m., and put on your dancing shoes for a virtual rock ‘n’ roll themed dance party. The dance will be available on SOSC’s accounts for Zoom, Facebook Live, and YouTube Live. Check out https://www.sosc.org/fall/ceremonydance for more information.
Post Your Photos on Social Media
SOSC is encouraging all members of its community to share pictures and videos from the Fall Extravaganza by using the #SOSCExtravaganza hashtag.
For more information about the Fall Extravaganza, visit https://www.sosc.org/extravaganza
Special Olympics Southern California
Special Olympics Southern California enriches the lives of 38,200 athletes and their communities through sports, leadership programs, and athlete health. Our free, year-round programs lead to improved health, self-confidence, and independence among athletes with intellectual disabilities and acceptance and inclusion in the community. Special Olympics Southern California has earned a four-star ranking from Charity Navigator for exceeding industry standards. This ranking is the highest Charity Navigator offers to an organization and is given because Special Olympics has demonstrated strong financial health and a commitment to accountability and transparency. Learn more at http://www.sosc.org