Jimmy Schwartz Golf Tournament raises money for Kadena Special Olympics

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Angelique Perez
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Distinguished members of the Okinawan communities came together to raise over $10,000 for the Kadena Special Olympics during the Jimmy Schwartz Golf Tournament held May 5th. 

This fundraiser was one of many that will be held throughout the year to provide the funds necessary to offset expenses incurred during the year for the Kadena Special Olympics. 

"The Jimmy Schwartz Golf tournament was a huge success," said 2nd Lt. Michael Morand, 18th Mission Support Group executive officer, "and we are humbled by the generosity given by so many." 

KSO is hosted annually by Kadena Air Base and is supported by the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy and Marines in partnership with Okinawa City, Kadena Town, Chatan Town and Okinawa Prefecture Government. 

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Special Olympics at Kadena Air Base and with over 1,300 athletes and artists participating in the program, KSO has become the largest community outreach program in the Pacific and the Department of Defense. 

"The event allows special needs athletes and artists to showcase their talents with the added benefit of allowing the U.S. military service members living on Okinawa to volunteer their time," said 2nd Lt. Morand. "Last year over 35,000 volunteer hours were contributed by close to 2,000 service members." 

The funding is used to promote the event's overall goal of creating a better understanding and appreciation for individuals with intellectual disabilities and helps provide for a full range of sporting events and activities throughout the year. 

"We just sent a floor hockey team to Boise, Idaho to compete in the World Games," he said. "The team won a gold medal." 

Many events to promote awareness, raise funds, and culminate with the Kadena Special Olympics games November 14, 2009 are expected to follow throughout the year. 

Anyone interested in assisting with the events should contact their Group representative and check the KSO website at www.KadenaSpecialOlympics.com for news updates and upcoming events.