One of the great things about America is the number of charitable organizations operating across the country. Thousands of not-for-profit organizations are in place to help and to raise awareness and money for those who have some type of need. There are foundations which focus on cancer, homelessness, poverty, abused women and children, and education. The Special Olympics has been doing great things since its inception in 1962. It started as a day camp for people with intellectual disabilities, and it has grown immensely since then.
The Special Olympics offers 17 different sports, and provides training and competition for those with intellectual disabilities. One of its most popular events, the Winter Games, will occur at Ober Gatlinburg on January 29th through the 31st. Over the weekend, over 140 athletes will compete in alpine skiing, snowboarding, and speed skating. There will be different divisions for all ages and ability levels, so it is an amazing opportunity for those who have trained hard for months to show off their skills. The Special Olympics Tennessee Winter Games will include the traditional lighting of the Special Olympics flame, which will take place on Monday, January 30th at 9 am on top of Ober Gatlinburg.
The Special Olympics is a wonderful organization that provides opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to gain courage, strength, skills and friendship. The Winter Games at Ober Gatlinburg not only helps the participants, but is also a great event for spectators. If you’ll be in the Great Smoky Mountains this winter, make a trip to the Special Olympics to show support of a great cause and to see some great competition.
For more information about the Winter Games and the Special Olympics organization, visit www.specialolympicstn.org or check out the events page on www.obergatlinburg.com.