As the fall season approaches, Special Olympics BC in Terrace is looking for volunteers to support its goal of inclusive sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
“The Special Olympics was created because there wasn’t sport and fitness opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities prior to its founding,” said Special Olympics BC - Terrace Local Coordinator Alex Blum-Walker. “The Special Olympics is the perfect model of inclusion in sport.”
This inclusive model extends to all their activities. “We never turn anybody away,” Blum-Walker assured. “We even modify our practices to make sure that the most number of athletes can participate as possible.”
The impact of these modifications was clearly seen in a recent out-of-town bocce competition.
“We just got back from Burns Lake where we had three athletes who had never had the opportunity to travel outside of the community for a competition before due to caregiver or paid staff availability,” Blum-Walker said.
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“We were actually able to gather enough volunteers to support three athletes on an out-of-town competition that they were extremely grateful for and just had a fantastic time competing against other athletes in northern B.C.”
However, this spirit of inclusion and competition extends beyond the athletes. Terrace’s Special Olympics BC chapter held a soccer game on June 29 at Veritas Catholic Secondary School, where the athletes took on members of the Terrace RCMP.
The athletes emerged victorious with a score of 8-4 and the event saw about 18 athletes and a similar number of RCMP members and their families participate.
Blum-Walker is hopeful that these successes will continue into the fall season with a roster of activities including swimming, bowling, curling and club fit. He also hopes to see an increase in volunteer participation.
“The few of us that do volunteer see the athlete’s appreciation,” Blum-Walker said. “I hope more people will get out there and volunteer with the organisation.”
Those interested in contributing their time and energy to this cause can contact Blum-Walker at terrace@specialolympics.bc.ca.
Viktor Elias joined the Terrace Standard in April 2023.
Tips or story ideas? (250) 638-7283 ext. 5411 or viktor.elias@terracestandard.com.
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