A Special Olympic Swimming Team has begun in Beaufort and has already gained much community support.

The Special Olympics organization was founded in 1968 with the vision of fostering acceptance and inclusion of all people. Through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths and abilities, skills and success. The athletes find joy, confidence and fulfillment.

Did you know that one in 10 people worldwide is a person with a disability?  Common causes are from injury, disease, infections, toxic exposure, genetic conditions, complications during pregnancy or birth, and for unknown reasons.

Through the Special Olympics, the focus is shifted from what athletes can’t do, to what they CAN through real competition and real achievements; thus, the attention to the disability fades away. The mission is to give these people continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

For the new Beaufort team Carolina Hammerhead Sharks, founder Debra Marshall says they are asking for sponsors to donate any amount of funds and/or supplies that are needed to go on the road for two local competitions in Charleston and Columbia, which require transportation, gas and food. Also, they are looking at creating a First Aid Kit to carry with them.

Debra said, “Many businesses in the community have already found a place in their heart for sponsorship of our new team. We have a goal of $1000 and have obtained $300. Thank you for our loving volunteers and sponsors thus far: volunteer coaches Christie Bohmert and Bethany Byrne, and sponsorships from Franciscan Center Thrift Shop, Rosie O’Gradys, Dairy Queen, Lands End Tour Kayak Rentals, Velveteen Rabbit Store, Piggly Wiggly, Food Lion, Free Agent Concrete, Jade Garden Restaurant, and the YMCA. Please support these businesses and tell them thank you for helping our special athletes in the community.”

To join the team with a sponsorship of $25 or more, contact Debra at 843-982-2722 or email funamongus@aol.com. This would be a tax deductible contribution to a nonprofit charity (501-C).