WHEREAS, Special Olympics Washington builds communities and leads in wellness through sports and inclusion; and

WHEREAS, More than 17,000 athletes participate in Special Olympics Washington activities and over 3.5 million athletes compete in Special Olympics programs internationally; and

WHEREAS, The annual Winter Games in Wenatchee brings together athletes and unified partners from across Washington for the culminating Winter season competition with the support of 600 local and statewide volunteers; and

WHEREAS, Special Olympics supports a global campaign to end the "R-word" with a focused campaign happening today, March 7th throughout the nation and world; and

WHEREAS, Athletes with intellectual disabilities pair with persons without disabilities and form teams for training and competition; and

WHEREAS, Unified Sports integrates Special Olympics athletes with other athletes to build self-esteem and increase understanding of persons with different abilities; and

WHEREAS, Special Olympics youth programs are education and sports-based strategies powered by an engaged youth community that increases athletic and leadership opportunities for students with and without intellectual disabilities, while creating communities of acceptance; and

WHEREAS, More than 8,000 volunteers support Special Olympics Washington activities, serving as coaches, sports officials, committee members, and on-site volunteers at competitions and fundraising events;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize and honor Special Olympics Washington, its volunteers, partnering sponsors, and athlete participants; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to Special Olympics Washington.