SOMO News

Where do you begin to describe a person that gives so much of himself to Special Olympics? Jason Underwood has been involved in some capacity with Special Olympics for over 12 years.

Jason is one of the most dedicated volunteers that Special Olympics has and he does it all very professionally, with a great attitude and compassion. He goes up and beyond to make sure everyone is appreciated and thanked at all the events he is involved with. He never wants the recognition and is behind the scenes more than anyone can imagine. He is there to help plan and implement whatever it takes to get the event done and done correctly, safely and successfully. He is the one that everyone goes to help solves solutions to situations that arise, and he is continually looking for ways to enhance the events for the athletes. Jason helps us to find the resources in the community to make our events successful. Jason has successfully secured tents, any equipment for snow removal, ice cutting, table, chairs and volunteers for the Kirksville Plunge. Jason volunteers numerous hours setting up and tearing down at our fundraising events and our sporting events. He hands out medals to the athletes. He is very dedicated to Special Olympics knows the athletes and works with them to make sure they are having the best experience.

Jason has been instrumental in starting new fundraising events in the Kirksville community. He started Guardian of the Flame 5K Run/Walk, he has started the Golf Tournament, he assisted another volunteer with the implementation of the SOMO Angel Co-ed Softball Tournament. He participates in or runs Freezin for A Reason, Tip A Cop. He started the “It Takes a Village” award banquet 3 years ago as a way to recognizes all the volunteers, coaches, sponsors and athletes. He has built it into a fundraiser as he sells all the tables to local businesses to bring them to the event as well. He sets on the Polar Plunge Committee and obtains sponsors as well has organizing a team to plunge. He has been the Region 4 TR Coordinator for 8-10 years and coordinates the Region 4 Torch Run every year.

We could not do it all without Jason and his dedication to our athletes, he takes time to visit the local athletes and involves the in all the events. He is there to cheer them on at their events and supports them wherever and whenever they need him.

These are just a few reasons why we have chosen Jason as our outstanding Volunteer.