Last year, our partner charity received some fantastic news. To honor the millions of dedicated and inspirational athletes, the Chicago City Council and the State of Illinois named July “Special Olympics Chicago Month.†Hip-hip hooray! Throughout the month of July there were a number of events happening throughout the city to celebrate. We couldn’t think of a more deserving group. The first Special Olympic Games were actually held at Soldier Field on July 20, 1968 with 1,000 athletes. Since then, it has grown into an organization with over 4 million athletes across 170 countries!
There was a major social media buzz surrounding these monthly activities. On July 20, Special Olympics celebrated a big birthday; the organization turned 47 years old! We’re told that life gets much better when you turn 47 so we can’t wait to what the future holds for them. On Thursday, July 23, local businesses such participated in Shop. Eat. Support. As a part of the celebrations, these businesses donated a generous percentage of the day’s receipts to the Special Olympic organization. Some of the main players were Glazed and Infused Doughnuts, Blaze Pizza, Edible Arrangements and many more. What a delicious deal! We love seeing the dedication and support of this great cause and are proud to be a part of it.
On Saturday, July 25, the BTN Big 10k took place at Soldier Field benefiting Special Olympic Chicago. On Thursday, July 30, they will also be the beneficiary of the Rock The Night 5k at Soldier Field. Starting on July 25 through August 2, Special Olympics will be sending four athletes to compete in the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles. The World Games is the largest sports and humanitarian event in the world and the single biggest event in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games. Best of luck to those athletes! Want to meet one of Chicago’s own participants? Watch this interview.
If you have ever attended our events are donated in any way, you have been a part of truly helping the Special Olympics organization!