Masons sponsor local athletes to Special Olympics Summer Games Huber Heights Masonic Lodge No. 777, located in Huber Heights, has contributed funds in the amount of $3,500 to sponsor 30 athletes to compete in the 2010 Special Olympics Ohio Summer Games. These funds came from individual donations and a variety of fund-raising activities that included the lodge's annual spaghetti dinner.
The event was held from June 25 to June 27 at the Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium athletic facilities of The Ohio State University. Children and adults with intellectual disabilities from across the state took part in this 3 day event.
While our community's lodge has sponsored Special Olympic athletes each year since its inception in 1977, Ohio Masons have given more than $3.1 million to Special Olympics Ohio to support the program over the past 30 years. This year, they contributed $200,000. It costs about $120 per athlete to attend. In addition to financial support, the Masons host a welcome center for Summer Games' athletes and their families, provide volunteer help during the contests, and participate in the Parade of Athletes during the opening ceremonies. The opening ceremonies, which include the Parade of Athletes, took place Friday, June 25 at 6:30 p.m. at the Jesse Owens Sports Complex with in excess of 500 Ohio Masons in attendance.
Special Olympics Ohio provides year-round sports training and competition opportunities for more than 21,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics contribute to the physical, social, and psychological development of the athletes. Through successful experiences in sports, they gain confidence and build a positive self-image which carries over into the classroom, home, job and community.
There are approximately 125 local and area events and Special Olympics Ohio hosts eight state-wide competitions each year, covering 22 sports. General information is available at www.freemason.com. For local information, contact Cliff Koss, Secretary at (937) 667-4532 or visit www.huberheightslodge777.com.
