Special Olympics returns to Campbell County; meeting today at 6pm

JACKSBORO, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – After 15 years away, Special Olympics is coming back to Campbell County.  “It’s been far too long that athletes in our community have gone without the opportunity to compete,” said Area Director Brandon Johnson.  “We are starting a team now that seeks to change that.”  The group is looking for volunteers, and is hosting a meeting for those interested in supporting the program on Tues., Sept. 27 at 6 pm at Manahouse Coffee.  Special Olympics Staff from Nashville will be on hand to discuss details on how to restart the program effectively.

The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing 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.

Nearly 1-in-five individuals in Campbell County live with some form of disability, yet have no true opportunities for recreation or competition.  Through the power of sports, people living with intellectual disabilities can discover new strengths, skills, and success.

The local group hopes to host their first event this coming spring.

To learn more about Special Olympics Campbell County, the group invites you to follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/SOCampbellCounty or call (423) 494-4894. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 09/27/2022-6AM)