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March 5, 2008
GOVERNOR AND FIRST LADY ENCOURAGE COMMUNITY TO SUPPORT SATURDAY’S SPECIAL OLYMPICS ON ST. CROIX Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. and First Lady Cecile have invited the membership of clubs and organizations on St. Croix to assist in the effort to bring greater awareness to those children and adults with special needs by participating in this upcoming weekend’s Special Olympics. The Special Olympics on St. Croix are scheduled for March 8 on the grounds of Renaissance Park. In a letter to the club and organization presidents signed by both the Governor and his wife, the First Family sought the support of "our Virgin Islands special young people as they grow and through their participation, exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm while enjoying the rewards of friendship and ultimately discover not only new abilities and talents but their voices as well." Each year, Virgin Islands Special Olympics provides training and competition opportunities in many sports disciplines for special children and adults. Special Olympics is based on the belief that through sports training and competition, people with special needs benefit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually; families are strengthened; and the community at large, both through participation and observation, is united in understanding people with special needs in an environment of equality, respect and acceptance. In 2007, and as a result of the success, Mrs. deJongh thought it prudent to convince Eunice Kennedy Shriver to bring her renowned "Camp Shriver" to the Virgin Islands in 2007, a move which allowed Virgin Islanders with special needs, the opportunity to improve their physical fitness and motor skills while at the same time, building self-confidence and establishing a more positive self-image. "In 2007, the Camp Shrivers in both districts were a huge success. I encourage everyone to come out on Saturday and cheer our young people on during the 2008 Special Olympics," Cecile deJongh said. |
