Dear Editor,
On behalf of Special Olympics Montana, I want to thank the Montana Fraternal Order of Eagles for their support and recent donation of $31,313.60.
This donation will help Special Olympics Montana serve more children and adults with intellectual disabilities as they train for life through sports. As an athlete-centered, family-based and volunteer-driven movement, the Montana Fraternal Order of Eagles support makes a significant difference in the lives of people who are, all too often, viewed with indifference.
At our recent State Summer Games, 1,000 athletes from 76 teams came together to compete in eleven Olympic-type sports and celebrate their hard work and achievements. During these Games, 27 year-old Keough Duffy ran up to me with a beaming smile, gave me a big hug, looked at me with a twinkle in her eyes and said with confidence, "I feel really good about myself". When I asked why, she said, "Because everyone here treats me like I want to be."
When I give thought to Keough's comments I realize that the joy she expressed about "to be" had everything to do with "to belong". To belong for a Special Olympics athlete is to be like you and me. To be treated the same. Not different, just the same.
I suppose this is a blinding glimpse of the obvious, but if not for the support of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Special Olympics athletes would not have opportunities to be part of our communities and "to be" accepted, respected and valued - core ingredients "to belong".
Thanks again to the Fraternal Order of Eagles, for giving so generously of your time, talent and treasure to programs like Special Olympics. As a fraternal order of people helping people, your support does much to enrich the lives of athletes, families and communities. You are a gift and blessing indeed!
With much gratitude,
Bob Norbie, President/CEO
Special Olympics Montana