It always warms my heart to hear about our community rallying together to support a good cause. The Special Olympics is one of those great causes.
The Special Olympics has been a part of B.C. sport for decades, all thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, supporters and very talented athletes who inspire us all.
On the steps of the Legislature yesterday, it was a pleasure to meet athletes from across the province who were recognized for their incredible dedication and talents.
They are athletes that are from every corner of our province who have passion for sport and fitness. In events big and small, athletes compete in a wide variety of sports including athletics, basketball, powerlifting, rhythmic gymnastics and swimming.
The 2014 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games are coming up in Vancouver July 8 to 12, 2014. Our government through Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and neighbouring Cariboo North MLA, Coralee Oakes announced $300,000 in funding in support to this great event.
However, local fundraising and support is just as important to ensure that the Special Olympics continue to grow and be successful in our province and across Canada.
When I was reading the Tribune last week, I saw that Staples and more than 30 local businesses came together to donate prizes and make gift baskets to raffle off.
The money raised was an incredible gesture on behalf of the people of Williams Lake and the Cariboo-Chilcotin supporting our local Special Olympics chapter.
That is why I will personally donate $100 to this cause and encourage everyone else to donate what you can to the Special Olympics.
Please be sure to visit specialolympics.bc.ca to donate online or ways you can volunteer. You can also visit vancouver2014.com for more information on the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.
Donna Barnett is the Liberal MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin.