BUCKHANNON – Food, fun and fundraising.
That’s what’s in store Saturday at the Honorary First Responders Day, a fundraiser for the Special Olympics of Upshur County, set to take place this Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Warren District Volunteer Fire Department in Hodgesville.
The event begins at noon at 5678 Clarksburg Road and will feature hot dogs, a silent auction, a dunk tank, a 50/50 raffle and caricature drawings. Local first responders – including the Warren District and Ellamore volunteer fire departments, the Buckhannon Police Department, and Upshur County EMS Director Gloria Burr – will also be on hand with equipment displays.
Dion Wamsley, the newly elected director of Special Olympics of Upshur County, said he hopes the community turns out in support.
“We’ve worked really hard to organize this event, and I’d love to see as many people as possible come out and support our athletes,” he said.
This year, more than 30 athletes – including 15 new participants – are part of the program, with athletes also traveling from Webster Springs, Randolph County, Lewis County and Belington in Barbour County. Teams are preparing for a busy fall season, with volleyball and unified flag football set for the Fall Games in Parkersburg on Nov. 1. Bowlers will compete separately in Charleston on Dec. 6-7.
Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and Olympic-style competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, fostering athletic development, confidence and social connections.
“The social experience is almost more important than playing the sport itself,” Wamsley said. “You give them some pizza, a hug and a little bit of music on Saturday night at the Victory Dance [at the Fall Games] and they’re happy. This is their time to shine – their shindig.”
Proceeds from First Responders Day will help cover the costs of uniforms, facility rentals for practices, and other program expenses. Community members are also invited to cheer on the athletes at a Special Olympics Bowling Practice scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29, at Woody’s Bowling Center.
The newly elected Special Olympics of Upshur County Management Team includes Wamsley as director, Amy White as assistant director, Kathleen Neetz as treasurer, Bobbie Alkire as secretary, Patsy Howell as sports chair, Stacy Ogden as uniforms and equipment chair, and Cindy Conrad as volunteer recruiter.
Shoe Sensation in Buckhannon donated a gift card to be auctioned off and 55 pairs of brand-new athletic socks for Special Olympic athletes.
