Wood County Special Olympics will host its 26th Annual Dinner and Fundraiser featuring a reverse raffle with the chance to win a $10,000 grand prize.
The event, which supports the teams of the Wood County Wildcats and celebrates the athletes, program and supportive community members, will be held from 6-10 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3, at Glass City Boardwalk, 27820 E. Broadway St., Walbridge.
All proceeds from the dinner and reverse raffle fundraiser will support the Wood County Special Olympics Program in purchasing new equipment and uniforms, registration fees, travel and lodging, facility rentals, officials, fuel costs, and more. The funds also allow for growth and expansion of programs and the available sports offered.
Thanks to sponsor contributions, generosity and support, the adult and youth athletes are able to participate in the quality Special Olympics programs. Last year’s sponsors included Platinum Sponsors,
Bowling Green Eagles 2180, IBEW Local 8, Knights of Columbus Wood County, and Taylor Automotive Family.
There are several sponsorship opportunities available this year. To become a sponsor, visit the Special Olympics website or email cbotjer@woodcountydd.org.
“By supporting Wood County Special Olympics, it allows athletes with developmental and intellectual disabilities to discover their strengths and abilities, while building their self-confidence. The contributions of our community and those beyond allow participants to develop friendships and experience what it means to compete and achieve. For that, we are forever thankful,” said Jen Krouse, Wood County Special Olympics local coordinator.
Kimberly Paxton, Wood County Special Olympics athlete is no stranger when it comes to Special Olympics! “My journey with Special Olympics began when I was 8 years old. Thirty-three years later I still play basketball and swim,” she said.
She realized that being an athlete is so much more than athletics. “I became part of a team that
had athletes from the entire state of Ohio. We worked together, we played together, we bonded together. We all shined as one. Being a part of Team Ohio helped me understand how close we are as Wildcat family. It inspired me to not only be an athlete but to be a cheerleader for my teammates. Without our sponsors each year, this program wouldn’t be where it is today. You are part of our Wildcat family,” she said.
Tickets are on sale now. The purchase of a reverse raffle ticket is $100 and includes one dinner. Additioal individual tickets are $40. Free soda and beer are included, chance games will be available, and a cash bar is also provided.
For more information about the event, call 419-352-5115 or visit the Special Olympics website.
