Lions learn about Special Olympics
By LESTER MURRAY news2@kilgorenewsherald.com

B'Ann Boiles hopes to get the Kilgore Lions Club involved in Special Olympics.

The Special Olympics of Texas is far more then a once a year event. That is why B'Ann Boiles was at the Kilgore Lions Club on Thursday to talk about that very organization.

Boiles, coordinator for the Special Olympics of East Texas, has been working with these athletes, young and old, for the past 20 years.

Boiles said there are 174 Special Olympics athletes in Gregg County and these athletes participate in events such as track and field, swimming and softball.

The one thing Boiles said she doesn't need is money, even though the organization is selffunded through contributions and she said she works real hard to aquire contribution, but what is really needed is volunteers. "It takes a lot of volunteers at these events, scorekeepers, field judges, timers and more and that takes hands," said Boiles.

"We have athletes from the development stage all the way to participating in the World Games," said Boiles. "The City of Kilgore has 30 athletes participating," said Boiles.

In September, the Special Olympics softball tournament is held at the city fields on Hwy. 135 here in Kilgore. Boiles challenged the Lions Club to come out and help support the Special Olympic Athletes during that event.

Another big event for the Special Olympics is bowling, said Boiles. "We have over 90 athletes who participate in bowling, but because the lanes are only available to us on Thursday and Fridays, we need volunteers who can spend time during those two days during the days," said Boiles.

The Special Olympics is about individuals with developmental disabilities to have the opportunity to learn about themselves and to realize their full potential. they will learn social, life, vocational and transitioning skills in addition to improving their physical fitness said Boiles. "We want to encourage involvement in Special Olympics throughout the community," said Boiles

Anyone wishing to volunteer to help in any event which Boiles says there is at least one Special Olympics event each month, can call (903)234-9655 for more information. "Also if anyone knows an individual who wants to participate in the games, please put them in touch with us," said Boiles.