Funding cuts force Special Olympics to ax events

[Kadie]

Funding cuts force Special Olympics to ax events

By KEN KUSMER, Associated Press Writer Ken Kusmer, Associated Press Writer – 2 hrs 20 mins ago

INDIANAPOLIS – Tommy Sliva takes great pride in his Special Olympics medals because they show he can ski better than many of his friends without special needs.

But the 19-year-old with Down Syndrome won't get to compete in the giant slalom at the Indiana winter games this year because they have been canceled.

"He was very sad. He said, 'Why, Mom?' Of course, he doesn't understand all of the financial situation," said Veronika Sliva, of Indianapolis.

It's been a rough two years for the Special Olympics, which endured the death of founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver in August and has seen sponsorship money dry up because of the poor economy. The Washington-based parent organization lost tens of millions of dollars when the stock market tanked in 2008. And many state affiliates have had to cut costs by trimming staff, canceling entire competitions or eliminating certain events.

more...
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100106/ap_on_re_us/us_special_olympics_cuts_3




In this Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010 photo, Tommy Sliva, right, shows medals he has won skiing in the Indiana Special Olympics in Indianapolis. This year Indiana Special Olympics has canceled skiing and showshoeing events because of budget issues. His brother, Petr, left, was Tommy's partner at last year's games.
(AP Photo/Tom Strickland)

[WeDidIt]

1. This makes me profoundly sad.

:(

[HBravo]

2. This is one organization that I always donate to.

[Kadie]

7. Welcome to DU HBravo!

:hi:

[TexasObserver]

3. Recommend

[madrchsod]

4. my wife works with special needs people.

so far none of their scheduled contests are canceled but it`s month by month where she works.

[jillan]

5. The 'special' community always faces cuts.

Advocates like myself always have to be involved. It is so sad.

[GreenPartyVoter]

6. I am so sorry to hear that. :^(