[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 161 (Thursday, September 17, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5703-S5704]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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           CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SPECIAL OLYMPICS ARKANSAS

 Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today in light of a 
significant anniversary for a crucial organization in the state of 
Arkansas. Fifty years ago, Special Olympics Arkansas was founded under 
the idea of an equal and opportune Arkansas. On this special day of 
celebration, I would like to recognize and thank Special Olympics 
Arkansas for its dedication to a virtuous mission that has transformed 
my State in more ways than one.
  Special Olympics Arkansas was designed to fulfill and uphold a 
specific vision to transform communities through sports and education. 
To make this ambition a reality, the organization provides individuals 
with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in year-
round sports and athletic training. Just as Special Olympics Arkansas 
has a positive impact on the field, it is also a powerful and effective 
catalyst for social change off the field. By offering a range of 
programming efforts that encompass health, education, community 
building and leadership, Special Olympics Arkansas is doing exactly 
what it set out to accomplish.
  Since its inception, the organization has seen increasing and 
overwhelming demand. Special Olympics Arkansas has 15,000 participating 
athletes and 5,000 volunteers. Additionally, it offers training in 15 
different sports with 240 statewide competitions and has cultivated 
participation in all 75 of the State's counties. While the 
transformative power of sports is at the organization's core, 
competition is merely a gateway to creating avenues for individuals, 
both with and without intellectual disabilities, to experience personal 
growth, find joy and gain confidence. The addition of several new 
programs such as the Inclusive Health Program, Unified School Program, 
and the Unified Leadership Program has proven tremendously valuable in 
breaking down barriers and creating accepting and inclusive 
communities. Thanks to Special Olympics Arkansas, our State has 
experienced great social progress and meaningful change over the past 
50 years.
  I cannot thank Special Olympics Arkansas enough for its continued 
dedication to creating an environment where enhanced opportunity and 
acceptance take center stage. Arkansas citizens of all backgrounds, 
their families, and our

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communities are forever grateful for five decades of hard work and 
dedication to a better tomorrow.

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