There is still a need for sponsors in the Special Olympics “Adopt-An-Athlete” program.
The goal of sponsoring about 600 athletes for the upcoming Ontario Provincial Spring Games, each with a $500 donation, is nearing a successful conclusion, said games manager Chris Probst, a constable with Guelph Police.
The games will be held at the University of Guelph from May 26-28, with competition in swimming, bowling, powerlifting, basketball and rhythmic gymnastics.
A $500 sponsorship helps pay the way for one athlete from across Ontario to attend and compete in the games. All those attending, said Probst, have worked very hard to get to this stage of competition, and have qualified to participate.
“We’ve been receiving calls every day from people who are interested in sponsoring an athlete or making a donation,” Probst said, adding organizers need about 15 more sponsorships to reach the goal. “That speaks volumes to how much support we are getting.”
Sponsors in the Adopt-An-Athlete program receive an athlete’s bio, which includes their photo, sport, hometown, and fun facts. Sponsors are also recognized in the games program, are invited to opening and closing ceremonies, and receive a commemorative plaque following the games.
Any donations of $20 or more receive an official receipt for income tax purposes. Sponsorship and donation offers are coming into local organizers from across the province. Sponsors are invited to the opening and closing ceremonies.
The sponsorships help offset the cost of the athlete’s transportation, accommodations, uniforms, and meals, ensuring they are well taken care of while at the games.
“This is one of Special Olympics premier ways of raising funds to hold the games,” Probst said, adding that indviduals, small work groups, families, and companies have so far sponsored athletes.
Sponsors generally attend the games and cheer for the competitor they sponsored, Probst added.
Visit the donation site here: https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/EventHome.aspx?eventid=171669&langpref=en-CA&Referrer=http%3a%2f%2fwww.specialolympics2016games.com%2fdefault.asp%3fContentID%3d35
