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Special Olympics Alamance seeks volunteers and donations; spring games drew 465 athletes and 725 volunteers
Summary
Alamance Parks’ Special Olympics program outlined year‑round offerings and said fundraising is its biggest challenge; spring games attracted hundreds of athletes and volunteers but the program needs steady donations to cover expenses.
Mackenzie Barrier, Alamance Parks’ adaptive and inclusive recreation coordinator, briefed the commissioners on Special Olympics Alamance County (SOAC), describing year‑round programs and fundraising needs.
Barrier said SOAC serves athletes ages 8 through adult life, offers sports year round (bocce, basketball, soccer, swim, equestrian among others) and partners with Alamance‑Burlington School System (ABSS) adaptive PE teachers and Elon University volunteers. Spring Games — the county track and field invitational — drew about 465 athletes and roughly 725 volunteers this past year; the event is the program’s largest and most expensive single event.
Barrier described the program’s average annual expenses at about $25,000 and listed typical costs: spring games ($11,000 last year), equestrian ($8,000), uniforms, facility rentals, transportation, and tournament fees. The program is funded entirely by donations, sponsorships and community fundraisers such as golf tournaments, trail runs and online auctions, and Barrier asked commissioners and the community to consider volunteer coaches and sponsorships.
Commissioners and other elected leaders praised the program and a commissioner pledged a $500 donation during the meeting. Barrier left contact information and a sponsorship package for commissioners and invited community members to support coaches or donate to underwrite athlete participation and event costs.
