Inspiration Walk 2008

Special Olympics Maryland Baltimore County (SOBA) is a nonprofit organization* dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition. In existence since the late 70's, Special Olympics Maryland Baltimore County offers children and adults with intellectual disabilities year-round training and competition in 14 Olympic-type summer and winter sports. (*Special Olympics is recognized as a tax-exempt organization under U.S. Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3).)

Special Olympics Maryland Baltimore County currently serves more than 400 persons with intellectual disabilities. As more sports are offered the number of athletes participating in Special Olympics will increase. Providing a place for continued growth for all Baltimore County residents, with an intellectual disabilities, is they key. Children and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. They grow mentally, socially and spiritually and, through their activities, exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm, enjoy the rewards of friendship and ultimately discover not only new abilities and talents but "their voices" as well.

Intellectual disability knows no boundaries. It cuts across the lines of racial, ethnic, educational, social, and economical backgrounds. It can occur in any family. One out of 10 American families is directly affected by intellectual disability. There are an estimated 7.5 million people with intellectual disabilities in the United States. This is approximately 2.5 to 3 percent of the U.S. population.

By walking you will be supporting the continued development of those with intellectual disabilities. Your participation will help to provide the necessary funds for the thirteen sports programs in Baltimore County. Our athletes are not only competing when they take part in Special Olympics, they are also developing friendships, social networks, life skills, physical fitness and so much more. You walk...they win.

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Not one person takes a salary, for what they do, for Special Olympics Baltimore County. Every position is filled by a volunteer who is either in school, working full time, or retired. This means all of the money that is raised is used to support our various programs. Did you know that all athletes participate in Special Olympics free of charge?

How can the money you raise help our fourteen athletic programs?

$100 could purchase five basketballs, or three weight lifting belts, or four dozen golf balls.

$325 could pay for postage of a Special Olympics Baltimore County newsletter.

$500 could pay the fee for our Duckpin Bowling Tournament

$650 could pay for uniforms for our Cheerleading program.

$1000 could pay for uniforms for our Basketball team, or for our facility fee for our Sailing program.

$2000 could pay the storage fee for all of our programs equipment.