Philanthropy

Our National Philanthropy is the Special Olympics. In 1968 the Chicago Chapter participated in the first International Games held at Soldier Field. Clipped Wings® has participated with Special Olympics National and World Games in several ways including; planning and hosting receptions for parents and guardians of the Athletes, Cessna Airlifts, organizing Award Ceremonies, and providing Family Lounges.

♥ ♥ ♥

Special Olympics National Games in Orlando, FL June 5-11, 2022.

Clipped Wings® members, Carol, MAL Chapter and Christal, CHI/ORD Chapter, were each presented a Special Olympics “gold medal” plaque for their 54 years each of volunteering since 1968!

This recognition is well deserved to both these ladies and to all the volunteers.

As Kathy (SMF Chapter) said “It really is amazing how much stamina these ladies have. They put a lot of us to shame!”

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

The 50th Anniversary of Special Olympics was celebrated in July 2018.

The Olympic Torch
Four of our members at base of torch
Ceremonies, we were honored guests and also at the reception.
Original SO volunteers, Carol, Christel, Judge Anne Brooks and National President, Dona.
Carol, left and Christel on right were volunteers at the first Special Olympics 50 years ago.
Rain did not stop our gals from enjoying ceremonies. Kathy from Chicago and National President Dona

From the very beginning we were a part of the effort, so it was a thrill to be honored guests at the Reception and the Ceremonies. Two of our members who were there at the first games returned, along with our Clipped Wings National President for the celebration. Please note the striking Eternal Flame installation. On the day of the dedication there were massive storms, so the ceremony had to be cut short. As always the Olympic and Clipped Wings® spirits prevailed.

SEA members prepare lunches for Special Olympic event in July.

Presently, we provide Grants for the Athletes families to travel, and watch their loved ones participate in the Special Olympic National & World Games.

We continue to seek avenues to best support the developmentally disabled, and other charities on both a national level and in our local chapters.

♥ ♥ ♥

O’Hare Chapter adds a van to the fleet for Countryside facility. They previously donated a truck to them.

♥ ♥ ♥

Children deplane after flying to the North Pole on Fantasy Flights across the country.

♥ ♥ ♥

The Newark Chapter decorated a room at Ronald McDonald House