Read on for exciting updates, event invites, and athlete stories!

2017 Spring Games: A Week to Remember

We hosted our Opening Ceremonies on Friday, April 28  at Soldier Field bringing together thousands of athletes, coaches, families, volunteers, as well as corporate and community partners. Together we commemorated 49 years of a wonderful tradition in our great city, and kicked off a full week of competition. More memorable and life-changing events for our athletes to enjoy! 
 
Thank you to everyone who helped us #FillTheField in honor of athletes. It was wonderful to have Justice Anne M. Burke, as well as Special Olympics International CEO, Mary Davis join us for this very special event. Thanks also to our generous corporate partners: Wintrust,  Subway, Chicago White Sox,  Bank of America,  Peoples Gas, Jones Lang LaSalle, iHeart Radio/WGCI, Advanced Resources, East Lake Management and United Airlines.
 
Our Spring Games Track & Field competition was  comprised of five full days of offerings and makes up our largest annual event. Nearly 4,000 athletes participated in activities ranging from distance races, to shot put, to the pentathlon and wheel chair events.
 
We are also grateful to the hundreds of volunteers and dedicated coaches who kept all of our events and activities running smoothly. What a great week!

A Special Visit from Michael Phelps

#AthletesSupportingAthletes ! Our thanks to Olympic Gold Medalist,  Michael Phelps,  for his recent visit and for sharing tips on pool safety as part of National Water Safety Month. We are grateful to the  Michael Phelps Foundation  for the opportunity to be part of this special day! 

Athlete Spotlight: Bowling

Earlier this month we hosted multiple Bowling events, featuring Junior and Senior Team competitions in different locations. We are excited to continue to grow these meaningful programs and expand offerings and locations through your generous contributions. 


Bowling is a favorite of our athletes, as it not only offers friendly competition appropriate for all ability and skill levels, it further provides a wonderful social opportunity. A special thank you to all of the incredible volunteers who supported our athletes to make these events fun for everyone!
Don't Miss Out,
Grab Your Ticket Today!

The Illinois Lottery is still offering Special Olympics tickets for a limited time. Find participating retailers in your neighborhood using their online store locater tool. Play for your chance to win instant prizes up to $50,000 and know you are making an impact in the lives of SOC athletes. Get your ticket today before they sell out!


Thank you to the Illinois Lottery for their partnership which allows us to grow our reach and awareness across the state. #CanDoThanksToYou
A Beautiful Day at the Zoo
 
Hundreds of our athletes experienced a great day at the Lincoln Park Zoo, enjoying one of our city's greatest attractions and meeting new friends. We are thrilled to provide athletes quality year-long athletic programming as well as unique experiences like this that build a true sense of community. Thank you Lincoln Park Zoo for your wonderful hospitality!

Last Call: Run with Team SOC

Miss out on the lottery? Catch the running bug this spring? Interested in running for a great cause?
 
Join our team for the 2017 Bank of America Chicago Marathon and receive a guaranteed race entry! We have just a few spots left - so don't hesitate. We promise great perks: reimbursed registration, $200 in training reimbursement, day-of celebrations, swag, and an enjoyable and impactful experience! Contact   [email protected]  if interested.
Make a lasting difference today with your tax deductible donation!  
Our thanks for helping us build a community 
of acceptance and inclusion for all.
SCC/Special Olympics Chicago | 312-527-3743| [email protected] | www. sochicago.org
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