Since their infancy, the Special Olympics has utilized the motto, “let me win, but if I can’t win, let me be brave in attempt.”  On Sunday, March 3rd, many across the Chicagoland area won.  Part of this victory came as a result of the charitable Ridgewood community. 131 friends and family of Ridgewood contributed to raise over $5,700 for Special Olympics Chicago.  This money goes directly into creating athletic opportunities for people with disabilities.

Along with this significant financial support, after breaking the ice-covered North Ave Beach, 13 Ridgewood staff members were brave in their attempt as they plunged into the frigid waters of Lake Michigan.  The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them 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.