"I remember never feeling as whole as I did then; I really found the best version of myself through engaging with the athletes and seeing their joy."
Alex Ritchie, former Feet Meet student facilitator, truly says it best – Special Olympics Virginia’s ABLEnow Feet Meet Series, which kicks off today, is guaranteed inspiration for participants and spectators alike.
So join us this spring as thousands of school-age athletes participate in the ABLEnow Feet Meet Series, which includes Little Feet Meets (elementary) and Big Feet Meets (middle and high). These Unified Sports® programs are a way for schools to engage students with and without intellectual disabilities throughout the school year.
For the students with disabilities, the Feet Meet events serve as a public celebration of meeting key developmental and social milestones. Students without disabilities can practice and compete with their team, as well as act as Feet Meet facilitators and fans. Together, we’re changing the game, creating a new space for students to form friendships based on shared values instead of differences.
“The ABLEnow program empowers people with disabilities to increase their independence, improve their financial security and achieve a better quality of life,” said Mary Morris, CEO of Virginia529, the agency that administers ABLEnow. “Our partnership with the Special Olympics Virginia allows us to answer questions about ABLEnow, promote inclusion and make sure families know about this new opportunity for individuals with disabilities to save for the future — just like everyone else.”
To find an ABLEnow Feet Meet Series event near you, check out the schedule below. Fans/community members are welcome to cheer at any Feet Meet. Please contact us at info@specialolympicsva.org with any questions.
About ABLEnow: ABLEnow® is a national ABLE savings program for eligible Americans living with disabilities. Since its national launch in December 2016, ABLEnow has grown to be the country’s largest independent ABLE program, with accounts in all 50 states. Call 1-844-NOW-ABLE or visit able-now.com to obtain information on the program. We encourage you to seek the advice of a professional concerning any financial, tax, legal, federal or state benefit implications related to opening and maintaining an ABLE account. Participating in this program involve investment risk including the possible loss of principal. For non-Virginia residents: other states may sponsor an ABLE plan offering state tax or other benefits not available through Virginia529’s program. ©2018 Virginia College Savings Plan. All Rights Reserved.