The Special Olympics Estevan committee has been forced to shelve their sporting activities for the time being, but they’re still fundraising so that they can resume activities when they’re ready.
Programs have been postponed or cancelled until June 30 by Special Olympics Saskatchewan. They had to halt ActiveStart and Fundamentals with about three weeks remaining in each.
“We had about 30 participants, and it was a lot of fun,” said local organizer Kandyce Meili.
The average weekly turnout was more than what they had in the winter of 2019 when ActiveStart and Fundamentals were brought to Estevan. New participants were happy to join the activities.
An annual bowling tournament was cancelled, while their swimming program ended early. An adult bocce ball program that typically runs once a week outdoors in May and June had to be postponed. There are usually about 10 athletes who participate.
Their annual softball game against local law enforcement personnel that traditionally takes place in August is still a go.
“We haven’t been able to do any planning or anything for that one yet because we don’t know what’s happening,” she said.
As for fundraisers, their provincial 50-50 sale is underway. It has a deadline of June 26, but that has been extended to October, so they can continue to sell. Tickets can be purchased from a Special Olympics Estevan board member.
“Fifty per cent of what we sell will come back to Estevan,” she said.
The other initiative is the Saskatchewan Law Enforcement Torch Run. This year it is a virtual torch run, with people able to raise funds and log their minutes while walking, jogging, cycling and doing other forms of fundraising.
“It definitely does boost awareness when people in the community become involved. They’re sharing that they’re doing this. They’re asking for pledges. More people find out about Special Olympics and what we do and who we help,” Meili said.
Special Olympics Estevan was scheduled to be involved with the Quota International Women of Today Awards this year. The event was to be their biggest fundraiser of the year, but it has been postponed to a later date.
That means the 50-50 draw and the virtual run even more important, she said.
