Calabasas and Thousand Oaks , Host Towns, Participate in celebrating the “Flame Of Hope”
SpecialNeeds.com supports the Special Olympics World Games Los Angels 2015 by donating articles, video, and photos of athletes, volunteers, coaches, and those making this event possible, the largest event of its magnitude since the LA 1984 Olympics. We have been more then excited to promote and be a part of such an amazing celebration of the human spirit.
In 1981, starting in Kansas City, the law enforcement made the universal commitment of supporting and raising money for the Special Olympics. Law enforcement has raised a half a billion in funds globally for the Special Olympics. There are over 200 million people in the world with intellectual disabilities and law enforcement has every intention of continuing their support, as it is important to continue the tradition of helping those who may otherwise be overlooked. SpecialNeeds.com sincerely thanks all the officers for doing a fantastic job and wants them all to know they are the “Real Heroes” of our country!
Freddie Boomer, video/photographer, police officer, and I, Robin Flutterby Borakove, World Correspondent for SpecialNeeds.com, were invited to witness the Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run from Mayor Lucy Martin of Calabasas, and Pro Tem Mayor Joel Price of Thousand Oaks CA. They were not alone in their efforts putting together the event, as the both cities have a plethora of support from their staffs and citizens. SpecialNeeds.com was honored with interviews from both and we learned so much about all that goes into being a host town.
We were greeted as any other member of the press. This is a huge relief for both my photographer and I, as we are both special needs adults diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, a low form of Autism, and often time are shunned because we’re socially awkward. Our assistant, Christina LaScala, tells us that we are not to worry, most people who meet us do not see us as adults with special needs, they witness our passion for the work we are doing to inspire others like us not to be afraid to live their dreams.
It was a pleasant surprise for us both when Mayor Lucy Martin mentioned our accomplishments: the coverage we have provided as well our commitment to raising awareness and education through the Circle Of Inclusion campaign. A Mayor’s seal of approval was a fantastic feather in both of our caps. Thanks Mayor Lucy, from Freddie B and myself!
The excitement was at an all time high as the runners were greeted. At the end of each run, there were many folks eagerly awaiting a chance to meet and welcome the officers and athletes. Speeches were made in support of all who had a part in making this amazing event possible. Rotarians, Bankers, City Council Members, Teachers, Students, and many other citizens were among the bystanders waiting for the torch to appear. A colorful array of handmade posters, balloons and cheering fans lined the entrances of the Civic Centers for both Calabasas and Thousand Oaks.
We were fortunate enough to have some great footage of the events. Please fell free to view the links below. If you know anyone who is involved with the Special Olympics, please email [email protected] for an interview, as we want to honor all the “Real Heroes” of our modern times.
