The Santa Clarita Special Olympics held its annual Holiday Party for both the volunteers and intellectually disabled athletes at Valencia High School on Tuesday, December 10th.
This day was filled with music, food, and excitement. Athletes and volunteers alike decked out in holiday gear from holiday-themed headbands to spirited christmas sweaters. Special Olympics clubs within the William S. Hart District also made scarves for the athletes and gave one to each person who attended the holiday party. Volunteers also put up decorations around the room, set up an inflatable Christmas tree, and prepared food, desserts, and drinks.
“The purpose of the holiday party is to celebrate all of the athlete’s accomplishments this year and get them in the holiday spirit! They work so hard all year, so this is just a fun way for them to relax and celebrate,” noted Emily Ticknor, the president of West Ranch’s Special Olympics Club.
Throughout the night, the athletes engaged in many activities such as playing with dreidels or dancing. “My favorite part of the party was the dancing! They all are amazing dancers and definitely know how to have a good time. They all are so happy and welcoming, so being able to dance with them warms my heart,” Emily continued .
Special Olympics is a global non-profit movement that aims to embrace everyone regardless of ability or disability. Coaches and volunteers help people with disabilities experience the joy of sports and playing with each other.
With festive music, engaging activities, and scrumptious delights, everyone had an amazing time at the Special Olympics Holiday Party, immersed in the positive and accepting community. It was a night full of endless joy and laughter.
![Both athletes and volunteers gather to take pictures in their festive gear. [Source: Emily Ticknor]](http://www.jstudentboard.com/reporter/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/12-27-olympics.jpg)
[Source: Emily Ticknor]
