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Celebrating 35 Years of Champions!
Special Olympics Minnesota is proud to celebrate 35 years of champions in 2008! In the past 35 years, we have impacted the lives of thousands of people with intellectual disabilities by providing a meaningful venue for athletes to realize their unique talents through sports training, competition and leadership opportunities.
Since 1973, we have undergone a name change, watched staff increase from two to 26, and most importantly, we are bursting with opportunity for people with intellectual disabilities. We have taken Special Olympics' founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver's dream that individuals with intellectual disabilities can participate fully in their communities and in life, and have continued to push all the angles. We have had the privilege of witnessing 35 years of inspirational athletes who have forever changed our lives and the lives of coaches, volunteers and community members through their passion and positive attitudes. Special Olympics Minnesota athletes’ enthusiasm for life continues to influence and motivate.
Our organization has not only touched the lives of Minnesota residents – it has played a role in the international arena as well. In 1991, we hosted the eighth Special Olympics World Summer Games, in which more than 6,000 athletes from 100 countries attended. Then, in 2005, we hosted the International Law Enforcement Torch Run conference, which drew more than 700 law enforcement personnel throughout the world to Minneapolis and enjoyed the participation of many Special Olympics Minnesota athletes.
For 35 years, Special Olympics Minnesota has flourished because of the dedication and passion of its volunteers as well as the excitement and determination of its athletes. Here's to another shining 35 years!
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