SOMO News

Here’s a look back at all of the amazing Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO) events from Nov. 28- Dec. 4, 2023!

Training for Life Campus Weekly Events and Classes: Nov. 28- Dec. 1

This past week was another fun week filled with laughter, learning, and fun at the Training for Life Campus. Here’s a glimpse into the successes we celebrated, and a warm invitation for you to be part of the joy this coming week.

🎶 Music Class: Our music class hit all the right notes, literally! Participants sang, played instruments, and delved into the meanings behind the lyrics. The atmosphere resonated with harmony as everyone explored coping skills like breathing techniques, rhythmic grounding, and relaxation. Got questions or eager to join? Reach out to Craig Hall at hall@somo.org.

🏋️‍♂️ Holiday Hustle Highlights: Our 8-week Holiday Hustle program is off to an incredible start! From 1:30-2:30 PM, athletes engage in tailored group sessions, earning rewards for attendance and hitting health targets. For every 5 classes attended, athletes unlock the chance to choose a prize from THE PRIZE BOX! Don’t miss out – see you there! Note: No sessions on Nov. 23-24 and Dec. 22 to Jan. 1. We’ll resume on Tuesday, Jan. 2.

☕ Buddy Club: Wednesday afternoons at the Training for Life Campus mean one thing – Buddy Club! Join us for cozy coffee, hot chocolate, and friendly games of board games and UNO. It’s the perfect midweek pick-me-up, and we’d love to have you with us!

🏀 Open Gym Fun: Fridays are for open play at the TLC arena! From 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, registered athletes and pre-approved groups can enjoy the arena for a day of fun and fitness. Any questions? Connect with Craig Hall at hall@somo.org.

🤸‍♀️ Workout Class: Our specially designed exercise class for individuals with disabilities continues to be a hit! Low-impact stretches leave you feeling invigorated and ready to conquer the day. Have questions or eager to join? Contact Craig Hall at hall@somo.org.

🎨 Artsy Class: Get ready to unleash your creativity every Thursday in November at 10:30 AM during our art classes. Join us at the Training for Life Campus for a splash of color, laughter, and artistic expression.

The fun doesn’t stop here! Join us for a week filled with exciting events, learning opportunities, and the joy that comes from being part of our vibrant community. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, there’s a place for you at the Training for Life Campus.

Give 5 Volunteers at TLC: Wednesday, Nov. 29

We were grateful to host amazing volunteers from the Give 5 program at the Training for Life Campus this Wednesday! Their dedication and support make a significant impact, and we’re thrilled to be a part of this inspiring initiative. Together, we’re building a stronger community!

Jefferson City Tip-A-Cop: Thursday, Nov. 30

The Jefferson City Tip-A-Cop event held on November 30th was a resounding success, bringing officers from across the state together for a night of community, camaraderie, and philanthropy. Thanks to YOU, we raised $4,135.05 at the fundraiser! Law enforcement battled it out at four restaurants, and the winning spot was Longhorns, raising an awesome $1,700! Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible! Serving patrons at four different locations—Oscar’s, Big Whiskey’s, Colton’s, and Longhorn—the dedicated officers created an unforgettable evening for attendees. The community showed tremendous support, indulging in great food, engaging with officers, and generously contributing through tips and donations. This event not only fostered positive connections between law enforcement and the community but also raised funds to make a lasting impact in Jefferson City. The success of the Tip-A-Cop event highlights the community’s commitment to collaboration, service, and making a positive difference.

Drive it Home Raffle Finalist Drawing: Friday, Dec. 1

Huge shoutout to Karen Kelly from the Kansas City Metro Area – the winner of this year’s Drive it Home Raffle! She won a brand new Ford Explorer XLT 4WD! Karen couldn’t make it to the finalist drawing, so Capt. Josh Heinen from the Kansas City Police Department stepped in to represent her. His reaction when he discovered Karen’s victory? Pure shock and excitement! Let the celebration begin! Congratulations to all the finalists, and thank you to everyone who bought a raffle ticket to support SOMO!

LETR Awards Luncheon

SOMO celebrated another successful year of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) with a celebration luncheon at the Training for Life Campus on Friday, Dec. 1. This event celebrated dozens of law enforcement agencies in nine regions across the state for their incredible fundraising and volunteer efforts in 2023. The highlight of the afternoon was the surprise announcement of the 2023 John Michael Letz Award. This award is the highest honor given within the LETR for SOMO. It is our unsung hero award.

Click here to read more about it!

Central Area Bowling Tournament Columbia: Saturday, Dec. 2

The Central Area Bowling Tournament was a striking success! The pins fell, the cheers echoed, and the spirit of competition soared at this tournament, held at AMF Town and Country in Columbia. Beyond the strikes and spares, the tournament was a true celebration of community. Families, friends, and supporters gathered to witness the talents of these athletes. Thank you to the Lincoln University Softball Team for their help with this event!

Missed the Central Area Bowling Tournament? Don’t worry! Our journey continues, and you’re invited to join us for upcoming events, where more SOMO fun will take place. Check out our calendar for more upcoming bowling events!

Southeast Area Bowling Tournament – Bonne Terre: Saturday, Dec. 2

The inaugural Southeast Area Bowling Tournament held at the Family Fun Center in Bonne Terre on Saturday, Dec. 2, was an undeniable success. The Family Fun Center provided the perfect backdrop for this fun tournament, creating an atmosphere filled with cheers, strikes, and the unmistakable spirit of SOMO. Amazing job to all the athletes who competed!

Hot Chocolate Run: Sunday, Dec. 3

The 2023 Hot Chocolate Run was a sipping success and a heartwarming blend of charity and community. As the winter chill settles in, hearts warmed at the recent Hot Chocolate Run, a national event that not only brought thousands of participants together but also stirred a delightful partnership with Special Olympics. Held in cities across the country, this year’s run, especially in St. Louis, was nothing short of a resounding success.

Amidst the sea of runners, our dedicated volunteers played a pivotal role, collecting bib tags at the end of the run. Each tag collected translated into a $3 donation to SOMO. The power of community was on full display as the volunteers, including teams from the STL area and law enforcement, showcased their SOMO pride.

Be sure to check out our SOMO calendar for all of our upcoming events! If you’d like to volunteer, visit our Volunteer Hub!