With the cancellation of Summer Games due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CFA Richmond quickly shifted their focus to the Fall Fitness Combine. With CFA Richmond’s help, SOVA was able to provide an 8-week virtual fitness program for athletes across the state, which we celebrated over the weekend during a Facebook Live event.
In addition to Chick-fil-A® Richmond’s financial contribution, the 20 restaurants cheered on 20 local Fitness Combine athletes throughout the month of October. Restaurants hung posters throughout their drive-thru and shared athletes’ stories on their social media pages. Athletes became local celebrities as friends and neighbors sent photos of their posters when visiting their Chick-fil-A® restaurant.
“We were so excited to support local Special Olympics athletes in the Fitness Combine this fall, especially after the tough year they have had due to the pandemic! Our location specifically cheered on Will Daniel from Area 31 and invited him to participate in our Cow Appreciation Day! We are grateful to support these athletes in their fitness goals.” – Jana Hollis, Marketing Director at Chick-fil-A® Parham.
The Southpark Mall location invited Area 16 athlete, Ricky Foster, and his family to a special dinner, where they reserved a booth just for them during a time when no other customers were entering. The Shops at Willow Lawn location invited Area 31 athlete, Emily Bower, to lead their Team Members and guests in the Fitness Combine exercises through videos that Emily shared on their Instagram page. Area 31 athlete, Will Daniel, was invited to participate in the Parham Road location’s Cow Appreciation Day, and handed out gift cards to customers in the drive-thru line while sharing more about the Fitness Combine. At other locations, athletes were able to greet the restaurant’s Operator, enjoy a complimentary meal, and take many photos!
We are grateful for Chick-fil-A® Richmond Market’s support and encouragement for our athletes during a challenging season.