SpecialNeeds.com has been a proud supporter of the Special Olympics World Games LA2015. In taking on this job I have met some truly amazing people, whom I call real heroes of our modern times. I interviewed two such men today at the City Hall of Thousand Oaks, California: Mayor Pro Temp, Joel Price and Economic Development Manager, Haider Alawani.
Mayor Pro Tem, Joel Price has been a supporter of the Special Olympics for decades. Joel volunteered at the Police Torch Run, where officers run alongside the athletes, making sure they get the torch safely to its next destination, and fundraisers such as Tip-A-Cop, where tips are earned and donated to the Special Olympics.
When Joel realized that the Special Olympics World Games would be held in Los Angeles, he was adamant that Thousand Oaks be a part of supporting the games. A meeting was held, and when the opportunity to host and support the Special Olympics was presented, the decision was unanimous. Thousand Oaks was to host athletes from Mongolia, San Marino, Tajikistan, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines. A board was selected and the real work began. Haider Alawani is co-chair for the committee formed to organize Thousand Oaks support. Volunteers have come from all over town to host the athletes until opening day of games. Joel assures us that Haider is the real hero of the bunch, keeping it all on track and running smoothly.
An array of events will be taking place in honor of the athletes staying in Thousand Oaks, including a Community BBQ at the Conejo Creek North Park. On July 17, 2015, the Flame of Hope will be carried through the City of Thousand Oaks, with a ceremony to be held at the Civic Arts Plaza front lawn, 2100 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, at 1:15 pm. Speaking at the ceremony will be Thousand Oaks Police Chief Tim Hagel, and Special Olympic athlete and Final Leg runner, Nigel Davis.
The whole city is brimming with excitement, as bowling expert Eric Fido, a native of Thousand Oaks, will be participating in this year’s Special Olympic World Games.
To learn more about the Thousand Oaks Host Town, please visit their special Facebook page.
