The Olympic medal is a universal symbol of athletic prowess and excellence. It beckons all those who have a yearning for sporting glory in their hearts. However, there are also those whose bodies cannot sustain the rigors of competitive sports owning to their physical limitations. Will their wishes never see fulfilment??

The Special Olympics Program Emergency Relief Fund was created for this very purpose. As a grassroots organization, they are raising awareness and above all the necessary funds to mount a special Olympic Games for the differently abled. On Friday, the Special Olympics division in Arizona elicited applause from all with an unbelievable feat.?

Arizona residents support the cause of the Special Olympics?

On November 17, more than 150 residents of Arizona wrapped protective gear around themselves before leaping from the edge of a 27-story CityScape building. This was part of the biggest fundraiser in the state for the Special Olympics. Named ?Over the edge?, the program invited participants to rappel down the building in downtown Phoenix. More than 150 people responded to the call, which included law enforcement officers, local team mascots, Special Olympic athletes and the fans who made the fundraiser a success.?Shelby Evenson, who works for the Special Olympics Arizona, spoke to a correspondent from Arizona?s Family to say, ?Terrifying. It?s terrifying. But it?s for a good cause. We like to say that we?re placing ourselves in the shoes of the athletes and they face their fears on the court, in the pool, everyday life situations?.?

Each participant paid $1000 in order to be eligible for participation. Thus, they raised over $150,000 this year, which was in accordance with last year?s record. Nonetheless, the participants also got to experience feelings of doubt, which helped them resonate with the Special Olympics athletes. These athletes face challenges in their pursuit of athletic ambitions, which requires unreserved determination and courage. Nevertheless, most of their ambitions remain beyond their reach for the want of money.?

Special Olympics face monetary challenges

In the post-pandemic era, the sporting world is facing the toughest financial crisis of the decade. Many of the usual supporters are backing out of their commitments due to their own struggles. In such a situation, the Special Olympics are disproportionately hit, as many funders don?t see them as raising too much revenue. To make things worse, the cost of organizing such an event has risen astronomically. The cost of operations has risen by 21% while the revenues decreased by 26%.?

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In such a volatile financial situation, the ?Over the Edge? fundraiser program is like a breath of fresh air for the Special Olympics. They are asking for support from the fan base. Those with the resources must help the noble cause in any way they can.

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