Motionball surpassed another fundraising target this past Saturday, providing a chance for more aspiring athletes to participate in Special Olympics programming.
With the event raising $140,000 and growing, organizers are expressing their gratitude for all of their loyal, passionate supporters.
“Once again, we are blown away by the community support we received this past Saturday,” says event director Derek Fuhr.
“To continue to grow and see records broken each year is outstanding. Thank you to everyone who participated in some way – you are changing lives.”
The goal of motionball is to Educate, Integrate, and Celebrate individuals with intellectual disabilities while creating more opportunities for those interested to join the Special Olympics movement.
A key topic at the event included our country’s prominent use of the “R” word, and it’s hurtful nature.
“There is no place for the “R” word in our vocabulary,” explains Fuhr. “No one should be discriminated against for their story and where it has brought them in their life. Intellectual disabilities are diverse and each and every one of these individuals is capable, strong, and has what it takes to realize their dreams.”
Through Special Olympics programming, individuals are welcomed into an inclusive community where life-long friendships are made, and where they can build valuable skills that translate into work and other aspects of their lives.
Two per cent of Canadians have an intellectual disability yet only 10 per cent of this population is registered in Special Olympics Canada programs.
Motionball hopes to influence a positive change in these numbers.
The motionball Kelowna planning committee sends a huge thank you to their volunteers, participants, and local community supporters including presenting sponsor, Kelowna Toyota as well as Valley First, Interior Savings, Kelowna Now, Capital News, SunFM, Pita Pit, Pulp Fiction, SunRype, Molson, Volcanic Hills and more, for their support in making this day, and this movement, possible.