Iowa State University


Inside Iowa State
April 14, 2000

Special Olympics needs your help

by Linda Charles
It's the "heartwarming experiences" that have kept Cindy Frederickson volunteering for the Special Olympics for nearly a decade.

"The athletes try very hard. They give it their all," said Frederickson, an academic adviser in health and human performance.

Founded in 1968, the Iowa Special Olympics provides sports training and athletic competition to mentally handicapped athletes of all ages. Volunteers provide a variety of services, such as fielding softballs, congratulating participants and escorting them to award areas.

Frederickson helps organize the developmental events, which provide activities for those "more profoundly affected by disabilities," she said. Many of the participants are wheelchair users.

Frederickson and a handful of other volunteers have worked together for several years to organize the events.

Asked why she continues to volunteer, Frederickson said, "It's the joy of the athletes as they compete. I enjoy it very much."

More than 900 volunteers are needed for the Special Olympics summer games on campus. No special training is needed. Volunteers may help with opening ceremonies Thursday evening, May 18, or work half-day blocks on Friday, May 19, or Saturday morning, May 20.

Applications, due April 24, are available at the Student Answer Center, B6 Memorial Union, and Osborn Cottage. For more information, contact Liz Beck, 4-4372, lcbeck@iastate.edu; or the Ames CVB, 232-4032.

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Revis ed 04/13/00