Special Olympics Spring Games 2017

Thank You for Supporting This Event for 22 Years!

Families, volunteers and spectators cheered on men and woman, boys and girls-all Special Olympic athletes as they competed at the Special Olympics Illinois Area 18 (Northwest Suburban Chicago) Annual Spring Games-Track and Field Competition on Sunday, April 23.

We were blessed again with beautiful weather and approximately 46 Immanuel family, staff and friends volunteered in the hospitality tent preparing trays of healthy snacks, serving food, and greeting athletes and their families and friends. Some supervised “Olympic Village”, an area filled with “carnival” type games – bags, ring toss, soccer drills, etc. to provide fun and companionship in between the athletes’ events.

The athletes worked and trained hard and we thank you for taking time to encourage, cheer them on, and congratulate them on their medals and ribbons. Your kindness goes a long way in making them feel special. Thanks to all who donated time, food and money to support the Student Council donut and bake sale to purchase supplies. Thanks to Thrivent for the generous monetary donation, and to Paul Nicholson for the donation of Immanuel logo hand sanitizer and punch balloons. The giveaways were fun and big hits! Most of all we thank you for your prayers and we hope that volunteering in whatever capacity was a unique and memorable experience for you.

Join us in congratulating Immanuel member Faith DiPaolo who won 2 GOLD medals; one in the softball throw and one in the 50 meter run which qualified her for the Special Olympics Illinois State Summer Games in Bloomington-Normal. Faith was honored to participate in the final leg of the running with the torch escorted by representatives of several community police officers. Faith ignited the Olympic Cauldron which was quite a sight to see! We are so proud of you Faith!!

May God bless you all for your servant hearts!

Elaine Schmitt and Carol Hajkaluk