Since 2004, the President & CEO of Special Olympics Indiana has had the honor each year of naming one individual who exemplifies the “Spirit of Special Olympics” but who oftentimes goes unnoticed, someone who places the athletes above him or herself and who helps us to grow and improve our great program. Brian Glick, from Tippecanoe County, has dedicated his entire life to furthering the Special Olympics movement through Athlete Leadership.
Named in honor of the former Special Olympics Indiana President & CEO, the ‘Michael Furnish’ Athlete of the Year Award recognizes the accomplishments, both on and off the playing field, of an athlete who embodies the Spirit of Special Olympics through hard work, determination, and a positive attitude. Katie Baumgartle, a Team Indiana swimmer who earned two silver medals at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, has earned that distinction for her many achievements as an athlete, a fundraiser, and a student.
Diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and other developmental disabilities after coming to America, learning English was just the first challenge on Anastasia Helmich’s road to becoming a Special Olympics athlete leader and Health Messenger.
This July, Thomas and Frederico will be attending the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle to participate in the Youth Leadership Experience (YLE). Along with Unified pairs from across the country, Thomas and Frederico were chosen for the YLE because of their leadership skills and passion for inclusion.
The 500 Festival, a nonprofit organization providing life-enriching events and programs that celebrate the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500®, have announced that Abby Abel and Mitch Bonar have been named Grand Marshals of the 2018 IPL 500 Festival Parade.
After discovering a passion for running and finding her place in Special Olympics Indiana’s Johnson County program, Sonya Roy is ready to take on the 2018 USA Games—and whatever comes next.
