LAWRENCE COUNTY – Lawrence County Special Olympics is a vital community organization that provides athletic and social outlets for those in the community suffering mental and/or physical disabilities. According to chapter leader Butch Bower, Lawrence County Special Olympics receives “no federal- or state-appropriated funds” and depends on corporate, civic, and individual gifts, a model that extends to county programs like Lawrence County’s.
Run by volunteers, the Lawrence County program offers year-round training and competition in multiple sports, including athletics (track and field), bowling, flag football, and Unified volleyball. The county effort is part of Special Olympics Indiana’s network, which stages state-level events such as Summer Games and a fall slate that features equestrian, softball, golf, cornhole, flag football, distance run/walk, soccer, and Unified volleyball championships. Participation is free for athletes, and the local program currently includes 52 competitors of all ages.
Bower said that all of the money raised is spent on local athletes. Last year, the program was able to provide every athlete with new uniforms and equipment, as well as host a special event at Shoe Sensation. With help from the store, the Lawrence County Community Foundation, and generous community members, each athlete was able to pick out any new pair of athletic shoes they desired. “It was almost like a party atmosphere,” Bower said of the celebration at Shoe Sensation.
Community support has come in many forms over the past year. Local restaurants have hosted “dine and donate” nights, including Buffalo Wings & Rings in Bedford in February and last fall, with proceeds earmarked for equipment, uniforms, and travel to competitions. A dunk-tank at the Lawrence County Fair in July also raised money for the county program, part of a steady cadence of small, hyperlocal drives that keep teams supplied and competing.
Civic groups have contributed as well. The Bedford Knights of Columbus listed Lawrence County Special Olympics among beneficiaries of its annual “Tootsie Roll Drive,” set for Sept. 5–6 this year, and in February presented checks to local organizations that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Residents who want to help — as coaches, event-day volunteers, or donors — can connect with the Lawrence County program through the Lawrence County Special Olympics Facebook page or by calling 812-320-6131 for details on how to join, donate, or volunteer. Those interested in participating as athletes can also call the number for enrollment information. With no public funding, organizers say community partnerships remain essential to keeping local athletes training, traveling, and competing.
Lawrence County athletes compete at area and state tournaments hosted by Special Olympics Indiana, which organizes more than 20 sports and major events throughout the year. That statewide calendar includes free health screenings tied to competitions, such as those offered during Eunice Kennedy Shriver Weekend at Grand Park.
