MEDIA RELEASE

What local nonprofit organization provides sports training, on- and off-island competitions and receives no state or federal funding? What group is entirely run by volunteers and does not charge the participants and the participant’s families any training or travel expenses? If you guessed Special Olympics West Hawaii, you would be correct.

Hawaii Island residents and visitors will be able to support SOWH while enjoying a meal at the Kailua-Kona Denny’s Restaurant between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Sunday, August 16. Denny’s will donate 100 percent of the tips received during this time and 20 percent of all food and drink sales to SOWH.

Project Compassion is a partnership between the Rotary Club of Kona, Denny’s Restaurant and several non-profit organizations in Hawaii. The monthly events have raised awareness for many Big Island non-profits and thousands of dollars to support their programs. All proceeds from the events go to the participating charities.

Special Olympics, founded over 40 years ago by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, believes that people with intellectual disabilities can participate in and benefit from participation in team and individual sports with the proper instruction and encouragement. Local and statewide competitions give these athletes the opportunity to measure personal growth and promotes the physical, mental and social development of the participants. Families are strengthened and the broader community benefits from seeing these athletes grow and participate in sports activities.

SOWH’s activities include basketball, softball, T-ball, track & field, swimming, power lifting, soccer and Bocce. All activities take place in an environment that promotes equality, respect and acceptance.

The Athlete’s Oath of Special Olympics is: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” This oath signifies the importance of competition, personal effort and good sportsmanship.

The monies raised from the Project Compassion fundraiser will go toward supporting the Special Olympics West Hawaii’s programs and mission. This includes providing funds for transportation, uniforms and equipment.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy a meal and support a wonderful local organization on August 16 at Denny’s. Reservations are not required.

For more information about Special Olympics West Hawaii, contact David Ross at 808-345-1344 or by email at sowhdave@yahoo.com. Also learn more about SOWH programs online at www.sowh.org.

To learn more  about the the Rotary Club of Kona’s Project Compassion, send an e-mail to Sue McConnel, who can be reached at samcconnel@aol.com.