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WHEREAS, in May of 1970, Special Olympics Pennsylvania was founded to help change perceptions of people with intellectual disabilities by breaking down stereotypes and promoting social inclusion through sports and competition; and,
WHEREAS, currently, the organization provides opportunities to 20,000 participating athletes statewide and has 56 programs for 1,000 athletes in Allegheny County alone; and,
WHEREAS, Special Olympics Pennsylvania provides year- round training in various Olympic sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, enabling these athletes to advance physical fitness, exhibit courage, and have fun; and,
WHEREAS, Special Olympics Pennsylvania runs a Healthy Athletes Program to provide free health exams to all of the participants, and the organization advocates for policies that improve the education, healthcare, and career opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities; and,
WHEREAS, the first-ever UNcathalon event in Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park will host 20 teams consisting of five athletes and one Special Olympics athlete from across Pennsylvania to participate in ten physical events and an eleventh fundraising event in support of the organization’s mission; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby welcome and commend the athletes participating in the Special Olympics UNcathalon event and does hereby celebrate the staff, board, and volunteers of Special Olympics Pennsylvania for tirelessly serving the intellectual disability community in Pittsburgh and beyond; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare April 9th 2017 to be “Special Olympics Pennsylvania UNcathalon Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.