RED BUD — Rotarians in Red Bud received a Rotary Foundation grant to support ComWell’s Special Olympic athletes and program, to which the club also contributed to.
Since the club was chartered in 2006, it has donated more than $53,000 to the Foundation through local fundraisers and club member donations. The Foundation then sends a portion of its proceeds back to local districts, which in turn set criteria for clubs to use in applying for funding needed in the community.
This year, the Rotarians of Red Bud partnered with ComWell to apply for the district grant to receive the funding needed to support ComWell’s Special Olympic athletes.
Special Olympics is a global inclusion movement that provides sport, health, education and leadership programs to empower people with disabilities.
“The Rotary Club of Red Bud is so proud to partner with ComWell to provide support – both financial and volunteer – for the Special Olympics program,” said Rotary Club President Matt Wagner. “When we see the athletes having fun, giving it their all, and the enthusiasm they bring to each event, it reflects the core motto of Rotarians around the world – Service Above Self.”
Rotarians joined ComWell athletes in an afternoon of sports activities on Tuesday, October 12, including soccer, volleyball, bocce ball, and football where athletes were able to demonstrate their skills and show off their new equipment and uniforms.
The club was able to spend time working with the athletes on their techniques and mastery while enjoying an afternoon of fun.
“The Red Bud Rotarians are excited to be a part of the ComWell Special Olympics,” said Red Bud Rotary Treasurer Pat Ramsey. “Our members want to help monetarily but we also want to donate our time and talents. This grant is allowing us to get to know the Olympians, help train them, purchase sports apparel and equipment, as well as cheer them on in their competitions. Being a Rotarian is about making a difference in people’s lives.”
Following the afternoon activities, club members met with ComWell representatives to learn more about the incredible impact their selflessness and commitment have made.
“After COVID cancelled all Special Olympic events the athletes were anxious to start preparing and participating again,” Program Manager Marcie Soderlund said. “Thanks to the generous donation of new sporting gear from the Red Bud Rotary, our athletes will have access to new equipment resulting in new sports and new skills learned. We appreciate our local Rotary club and their willingness to help us purchase necessary equipment, uniforms, and for volunteering to assist in any way possible.”
ComWell provides developmental disabilities services to Randolph County IL, Washington County IL, and throughout Southern Illinois. Through long-term support and assistance, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can achieve productive, meaningful lives and reach their fullest potential.
The Rotary Foundation has invested more than $4 billion in life-changing and sustainable projects around the world since being founded more than 100 years ago.
About ComWell: We are committed to empowering individuals to pursue growth and wellness by promoting positive, healthy changes for individuals and communities through engagement, education, treatment and recovery. In 1971, we saw a need for support and we answered the call. ComWell services work together to achieve our goal of bringing wellness to our communities. ComWell is the beacon of community wellness and bridging the gap from individual to resource.