Fund Raising
.gif) ...... Summer Games
The concept of Special Olympics was begun in 1962 by Eunice Kennedy
Shriver who started a day camp for people with itellectual disabilities at her
home. She believed that people with intellectual disabilities were far more
capable than commonly thought and deserved the same opportunities and
experiences as others. Therefore, in June of 1962 she invited 35 boys and
girls with intellectual disabilities to Camp Shriver at her home in Rockville,
Maryland to explore their capabilities in a variety of sports and physical
activities. It became an annual event. Mrs. Shriver created the Athlete
Oath: " Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the
attempt." We have many devoted people that make the Special
Olympic Games possible in Maine. One of them is Taconnet's Branch
Manager, Mary Libold, who is active in both the Winter and Summer
games. Of course none of it would be possible without the athletes
such as Robby Godin, son of Taconnet Members Fred and Debbie
Godin. Congratulations, Robby, on your Medals, and to all the Athletes.
Here are some photos taken at the recent games at UMO:
Robby recieves one of his medals from a policemen that
volunteered for the games.
Robby Godin displaying his well earned Gold and
Silver Medals
Exctied Athletes receiving medals at the podium.
Volunteers take a break.
Athletes stand proudly on the podium.
Maria Shriver's address to the Athletes:
" You are the stars and the world is watching you. By your presence
you send a message to every village, every city, every nation. A message
of hope. A message of victory.
The right to play on any playing field.
You have earned it.
The right to study in any school.
You have earned it.
The right to hold a job.
You have earned it.
The right to be anyone's neighbor.
You have earned it."
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Taconnet's two main fundraising causes are Special Olympics
and Ending Hunger. We have periodic fundraises for Special
Olympics and have staff members that volunteer at both the
Summer and Winter Special Olympic Games. Taconnet does
the same for Ending Hunger that is coordinated through the Maine
Credit Union League. There are ongoing candy bar sales at both
the branch and main office with funds going to Ending Hunger.
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