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Feb 24 Athlete Input Council Meeting
Mar 3 Management Team Meeting
Mar 12 Summer Sports County Games
Mar 24 Athlete Input Council Meeting
To view our full event calendar, please click here.
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"SUMMER SPORTS" COUNTY GAMES
VOLUNTEERS & SPECTATORS WELCOME
Bocce, Cycling, Tennis, Track, Volleyball, Soccer
Summer Sports County Games will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2011. We look forward to you joining us, whether you are competing, volunteering or would like to simply be a fan of our athletes!
Event Volunteers Needed- Please click here for details
Athletes/Coaches- Please click here for details
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SOCCER VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Our soccer team is in need of a few more helping hands. Please click here to view the schedule. If interested in volunteering, please contact Coach Stephanie ssharrer@knights.ucf.edu, 301-247-9898
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YOUNG ATHLETES PROGRAM
Seminole County's YAP program provides an innovative sports play program for children with intellectual disabilities ages 2-7 years and their peers. It is designed to introduce them into the world of sports and assist them as they grow physically, cognitively and socially.
We are excited to be starting our second session and practices are underway as we speak. We meet most Saturdays at the YMCA's Lake Mary facility.
If you are interested in enrolling your child we have a few openings. Please contact Barbara Costanzo, 407-718-3259, barbc@cfl.rr.com for more information. Please click here for schedule.
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| DWIGHT HOWARD DONATES $20,000 TO SPECIAL OLYMPICS FLORIDA 
NBA All-Star Dwight Howard Launches D12 Foundation with a Gift from the Heart for Special Olympics Florida on Valentine's Day NBA All-star Dwight Howard brought something better than flowers or candy to Special Olympics Florida today - he stopped by the headquarters in Clermont to visit with athletes, sign autographs, take a tour of the facility and announce that his D12 Foundation has selected Special Olympics Florida as one of its charities of choice! Global Messenger Richard Mendola and Special Olympics Florida President Monty Castevens welcomed Dwight Howard and representatives from his D12 Foundation before getting down to fun when Dwight took part in a Young Athletes Program demonstration, playing catch with athletes ages 2-7. |
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THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE 2011 POLAR PLUNGE
Those of us that participated in the 2011 Polar Plunge (we took the "plunge", Jan 22nd at Aquatica), have finally warmed up! SOSC was well represented this year!
One of our athletes, Chris Kenny with his "Hillbilly Bathing Suit"
came in 1st Place for best costume and Maria Laporto (volunteer) as the "Elegant Plunger" came in a close 2nd!
Also, Debbie Knitz (volunteer) and her group, "Debbie's Penguins", came in 1st with the Best Group Costume.
A "warm" thank you to all those who participated and those that donated to our "Plungers", your contrinbutions totaled more than $20,000!
Click here for all the Pics!
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ATHLETE LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS |
ATHLETE INPUT COUNCIL
The Athlete Input Council serves as representatives and leaders for SOSC athletes. Our next meeting will be:
Tuesday, February 24, 2011 at 6:30 - 8:00pm
1225 Bennett Drive, Suite 133, Longwood, FL 32750
For more information, please contact:
Kevin Lajeunesse, 407-257-7730 or
Kevin@SpecialOlympicsSeminoleCounty.org |
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GLOBAL MESSENGER
The role of the Global Messenger is to help promote the Special Olympics. Global Messengers are expected to go out in the community to speak to about the joy of participating in Special Olympics.
We are very fortunate, and most proud to have two Global Messengers for Seminole County:
Chris Friedman
and
Richard Mendola We encourage the community to "listen to our athletes". If you are interested in having Chris or Richard speak to your company or organization, please contact:
Kevin Lajeunesse, 407-257-7730 or Kevin@specialolympicsseminolecounty.org
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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Dustin Parramore
Dustin is active in a dance team thru the city of Altamonte Springs, and a theater group in the local church community. He participates in horseback riding when time allows and loves spending time with family & friends. He enjoys basketball, volleyball, tennis, bowling, swimming, powerlifting, and golf. When not participating he enjoys being a spectator and cheering for his peers. Each sports and/or activity always seems to provide a lesson learned for him be it choice, respect, safety, or just being part of team.
Dustin is always has a warm smile on his face and he's eager to be involved. He gives each sport his all. Since his involvement with SOSC he's gained confidence in his own abilities. He embraces the idea of being part of a team. SOSC allows him to feel accomplished and that shows him the effort he puts forth does matter.
His parents & family have always encouraged a "you can do it attitude" with him. It's great to be involved in the SOSC environment where peers, parents, families, coaches, and volunteers support that same sense of achievement and encouragement. For Dustin, SOSC is a place where "who you are" can be celebrated and a sense of pride in that is welcomed.
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VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
Nicole Sher
As told by her sister Tracy
I just learned that my sister was named Volunteer of the
Month for her dedication to Seminole County Special Olympics Basketball. This is such wonderful news and I am so proud of her! Nicole is truly a special individual with a genuine heart. She undoubtedly deserves recognition for her dedication and commitment. Nicole has faced many trials and tribulations due to her physical handicaps due to cerebral palsy. Despite the disabilities, while growing up she actively participated in her two favorite sports- basketball and bowling. When the opportunity came along for Nicole to volunteer for the Special Olympics Basketball as an Assistant Coach, she could not have been more excited. She said "I really want to make a difference in others' lives". She was thrilled to have the chance to be on the court with these amazing, special athletes. Nicole told me that she really liked "seeing all of the athletes happy and enjoying what they were doing." She loved having an opportunity to use her basketball knowledge to assist the athletes with strategies and skills.
Thank you for recognizing this exceptional, wonderful young
woman- my beloved sister- for her dedication to the Special Olympics. Nicole can be shy when you first meet her, but behind the initial reticence is a beautiful person who is so excited to connect with everyone around her. The mission of Special Olympics is to provide athletes with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to "experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship". I am certain Nicole
facilitated bringing joy to the basketball athletes, and in turn, she was able to receive an amazing gift of support, friendship, and JOY herself. I am so proud of Nicole!
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Whether you are a parent, guardian, educator or volunteer you can help us make a difference!
If you are interested in joining a committee!
Thursday, March, 3 at 6:30pm
1225 Bennett Drive, Suite 133, Longwood, FL 32750
For more info: Marie El-khoury at 407-782-0525 or
Marie@SpecialOlympicsSeminoleCounty.org
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU ALL!
| Adam W | Elizabeth J | Kay E | | Alexander R | Eric L | Michael B | | Alexis V | Gabrielle P | Michael G | | Andreas S | Janna M | Michael M | | Ashley H | Jessica T | Peter B | | Brittany S | Joe N | Saloni M | | Chris L | Jordan B | Samuel H | | David W | Kayla F | Tricia L | | Donna S | Maxwell B | |
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VOLUNTEER POSITIONS WANTED
Special Olympics Seminole County has the potential to spread the joy of Special Olympics to hundreds of new athletes... but we need YOU! SOSC is in need of passionate and dedicated volunteers to join our committees and team of coaches. This can include: registration, training, competition, fundraising, school based programs, and more! Volunteer duties would be at least 5-10 hours a month with a preferred commitment of at least a year. A majority of work can be completed at the work site of your choice, whether home or our donated office space. Computer knowledge is preferred. For more information, please contact Ranwa Nin El-khoury at RanwaNin@SpecialOlympicsSeminoleCounty.org
"Your actions inspire others to dream more,
learn more, do more and become more."
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SOSC ON FACEBOOK
Click Here to become a Facebook Fan of Special Olympics Seminole County. Chat with parents, coaches, supporters and keep up with events and updates. |
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS |
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THIS MONTH'S EDITION OF THE "SEMINOLE SPIRIT"
WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY
A TOUCH OF HOPE
For only $25... Your sponsorship helps support the cost of printing the hard copy of the newsletter and pays for the email marketing program used to distribute the e-news.
Would you like to sponsor a newsletter?
Please contact Winston Jones at 407-923-3902
We encourage you to consider supporting those who support Special Olympics Seminole County! Recognition of support/sponsorship of SOSC does not constitute endorsement by Special Olympics.
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Special Olympics Seminole County relies greatly on assistance from Sponsors. They are always in need, not only to provide financial help, but to offer safe and productive training facilities to our athletes. Without the generous donations of many organizations, our athletes would not have the facilities, equipment, volunteers or funds to train and compete on a year-round basis for free. We all appreciate everyone's support!
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HOW TO MAKE A DONATION TO SPECIAL OLYMPICS SEMINOLE COUNTY
SOSC is funded primarily through individual and corporate contributions, grants, sponsorships, and yearly fundraisers. This financial assistance covers many essential expenses including equipment, uniforms, transportation, meals, lodging, volunteer training, and more. Any contribution or assistance you can provide to help SOSC meet these financial goals is greatly appreciated! If you would like to make a donation by mail, please send your contribution to the following address:
Special Olympics Seminole County
PO Box 520742
Longwood, FL 32750-0742
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The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for persons eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities, giving them the opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics Athletes, and the community.
To Learn More About Special Olympics and it's History Click Here |
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On behalf of Special Olympics Seminole County, we appreciate all the Volunteers, Coaches, Sponsors and Donors who have contributed their time, talents and treasures to help make our program a success! | |
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Special Olympics Seminole County's Online Photo Gallery |
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Vocational Rehabilitation
Casselberry
Have you ever thought about getting a job+ Having extra money to spend? Being more independent.?
Vocational Rehabilitation Services can help you achieve those goals. We are state a agency whose job is to assist people with disabilities to obtain employment. We provide assessment, job coaching, and supported employment services to those that need that extra help. If you live in Seminole County we have two offices to serve you, in Sanford and Casselberry.
We have an open orientation in the Casselberry office every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 8:45 a.m.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
917 East 436. Casselberry, FL. 32707.
Call or have someone call for you, to get further directions.
407-262-7428.
If you really want to get a job we can help you. |
The City of Altamonte Springs Special Community Services and the Advisory Board for the Disabled, Inc. provide social activities throughout the year at minimal cost to the mentally and physically challenged population in Altamonte Springs surrounding communities. |
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I CAN SPEAK CAMPAIGN
in conjuction with the
Seminole County Public Schools
Do you have an "extra" iPhone or iPod after upgrading to a new one? Wondering what to do with your
old one? There is a great opportunity for you if you answered yes to either question !
There are students with special needs, such as those with autism, who can use these devices to communicate
and enhance their educational programs! Some of these students attend your zoned school.
By donating your old iPhone or iPod it can be used with specially designed applications to help a child,
who is not able to verbally communicate, to have a voice!
Click Here for More Information |
Through quality and innovation, Quest has built communities where people with disabilities have achieved their goals for more than 40 years. From a variety of residential and employment options, to behavioral therapy and even a recreational summer camp, Quest serves more than 1,000 individuals on any given day in Central Florida. By offering these opportunities to learn, live, work and play, children and adults can imagine and achieve their full capabilities. | |
Serving kids with all types of special needs, including cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, autism, speech and developmental delays, vision and hearing impairments |
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CARD serves children and adults of all levels of intellectual functioning who have autism, autistic-like disabilities, pervasive developmental disorders, dual sensory impairments (deaf-blindness), or a vision or hearing loss in addition to other disabling conditions. |
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Nathaniel's Hope was founded in 2002 to meet the needs of kids with special needs (VIP Kids) and their families. VIP Kids are those with any physical, cognitive, medical or hidden disability, chronic or life-threatening illness, or those that are medically fragile. Through their personal experience with their son Nathaniel, co-founders Tim and Marie Kuck saw first-hand how demanding it can be to raise a child with special needs. |
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Agency for Persons with Disabilities
The APD works in partnership with local communities and private providers to assist people who have developmental disabilities and their families. APD also provides assistance in identifying the needs of people with developmental disabilities for supports and services. |
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Florida Disabilities Council
The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) is a non-profit organization funded through federal assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Developmental Disabilities. The Council accomplishes its mission by supporting innovative initiatives that demonstrate new approaches to enhance the independence, productivity, inclusion and self-determination of individuals with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life. |
Down Syndrome Association Of Central Florida
The Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida is the leading voice for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. We offer hope, encouragement and acceptance through advocacy, education and awareness so that each may realize their potential as members of our community. |
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Autism Society of Greater Orlando
The mission or goal of the Autism Society of Greater Orlando is that all individuals within the autism spectrum will be provided a lifetime network of opportunities to become fully accepted, included, and actively participating members of our community, through family support, education, and advocacy, and public awareness. |
Lighthouse of Central Florida
Provides life-changing services for blind and sight-impaired babies, children, teens and adults, seniors and their families in Orange, Osceola, Seminole counties and The Villages. | |
Is your child in need of special services in school? Is he struggling? Have his grades been dropping? Is he having behavioral problems? Have you been trying to get the school system to evaluate your child and they ignore you? |
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Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Since then, Autism Speaks has grown into the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We are proud of what we've been able to accomplish and look forward to continued successes in the years ahead.
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GARDENS OF LIFE
Committed to educating and empowering adults to discover their full potential and achieve independent life skills addressing their social, recreational, vocational and residential needs.
The Culture Garden offers participants opportunity to shine like the stars they are in the
Gardens of Life, Inc |
SPECIAL POPULATION DANCES Mentally and physically challenged teens and adults are invited to join the Oviedo-Winter Springs Optimist Club and the Oviedo Recreation and Parks Department for a night of dancing once a month. Frankie the DJ will play family and friendly music. Prizes costume and will be awarded for costume and dance contests. Birthdays will be celebrated. Snacks will be served. Please come and have some family fun!
February 25, 2011 March 25, 2011 April 15, 2011 May 27, 2011 June 17, 2011 Riverside Park, 1600 Lockwood Blvd., Oviedo 407-971-5575 7:00pm - 9:00pm $2 per particpant and $1 per guest attending For more information, please contact : Anne Marie Sargent 407-359-5014 amsargent@cfl.rr.com Jenette McKinney 407-971-5591 jdmckinney@cityofoeviedo .net |
Dedicated to Serving Those With Special Needs!
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