Special Olympics Texas Capitol Day Scheduled

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Special Olympics Texas Athletes from across the state are invited to travel to the state Capitol in March to participate in hearings related to consequences arising from the stigma and stereotypes faced by those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The March 12 event is described by officials as "...a day of fun, fellowship, and a chance to learn about the high impact and cost-effectiveness of Special Olympics’ evidence-based programming that addresses these issues."

Schedule of Events
8:30 a.m. Informational Breakfast
Texas State Capitol – Capitol Grill
Preparation, Training, and Detailed Information Meeting, REQUIRED for participation

9:30 a.m. Special Olympics Recognized on House and Senate Chambers
Senate Chamber Gallery, 3rd Floor
House Chamber Gallery, 3rd Floor
Participants are advised to be prepared to watch session in action as legislators convene and the group is formally recognized. A State Resolution will be read and voted on to recognize the accomplishments of SOTX athletes, along with discussion on the history and future of SOTX.

11:00 a.m. South Steps Rally and Photos
Texas Capitol south s
Photos will be taken with key legislators, and the group will be addressed by lawmakers while cheering on the success of SOTX.

11:30 a.m. Lunch and Games on the Capitol lawn
Texas Capitol Grounds, South Lawn
Lunch will be served for all SOTX attendees, LETR, and every Legislator and Legislative Member
This event is open to the public. The group will be showcasing a few lawn games while enjoying a picnic-style lunch with policy-makers and fans.

1:30 p.m. Advocacy and Unified Internships
(Contact Jenni for Internship info, Interns must apply before qualifying)
Athletes, Family Members, Volunteers, and LETR will be dispatched for brief advocacy meetings OR athletes will arrive in Legislative Offices for Internship Program

5:30 p.m. Celebratory Reception “SXSOTX” (South by SOTX show – live music featuring an athlete band. The downtown Austin close will feature live Music and Reception honoring SOTX and networking with policy-makers and supporters.

About Special Olympics Texas

Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) is a privately funded non-profit organization that changes lives through the power of sport by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance for all, and fostering communities of understanding and respect. SOTX provides continuing opportunities for more than 59,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout the Lone Star State to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship. To learn more, visitwww.specialolympicstexas.org or call 800.876.5646. Engage with us on: Twitter @SOTexas; fb.com/SpecialOlympicsTX; youtube.com/specialolympicstexas.

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>>> Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Texas