Every four years, Special Olympics holds a USA Summer Games that includes athletes from all 52 U.S. Programs. New Jersey is proud to have been selected as host of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games, the Games of Welcome and Acceptance.

The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will showcase athletes competing in 14 official and three demonstration sports during the week of June 14-21. Competitions will be offered in both traditional and unified play, bringing together the community to support and play side-by-side with our athletes, in what we expect to be the most inclusive games in Special Olympics history.

While the games will highlight competition, special events — including opening and closing ceremonies, athlete events and educational programs throughout the week — will create an experience of a lifetime for all athletes, families and volunteers in attendance, leading to a change in understanding and acceptance of persons with intellectual disabilities in communities throughout New Jersey and the United States.

Steve Mallan from Austin will representing Team Minnesota as a bowling athlete.

 Upcoming Events

•Wednesday: Fundraising Committee meeting, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

•May 29: Open house, 4 to 7 p.m. Come and see what The Arc is all about. Play games, light refreshments will be served and wish Steve Mallan “Good Luck” as he prepares to attend the Special Olympics USA games in New Jersey.

•June 2: Newsletter assembly, 3 to 5 p.m.

Jamey Helgeson is the Program Director at The Arc Mower County and can be reached at jamey@thearcmc.org or by calling 507-433-8994, Extension 102. You can also visit our website (www.thearcmc.org) and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thearcmc).