Bowling Green, OH – June 11, 2025 — The Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) invites the community to join us this Friday at 8:30 AM near the Bocce Courts at our main campus as we give a high-energy send-off to our incredible Wood County Special Olympics athletes heading to the 2025 State Summer Games in Columbus!

This year’s team includes 11 track athletes and 4 bocce athletes, and we’re especially proud to be cheering on several first-time State Games participants! It’s a big moment—and we want to make it unforgettable.

We'll be departing at 9:00 AM, but before we hit the road, we’re planning a celebration complete with pom-poms, noisemakers, and confetti cannons to get everyone pumped up and ready to compete.

All are welcome—whether you're a family member, friend, staff member, or community supporter, your presence and encouragement make a world of difference to our athletes.

“We are so proud to see our Special Olympics program continuing to grow—not just in numbers, but in opportunities,” said Charese Botjer, WCBDD’s Communications and Community Engagement Manager. “It’s incredibly exciting to be able to offer this experience to children and others who’ve never had the chance to participate before. These Games represent more than competition—they’re a celebration of inclusion, confidence, and community.”

Come help us fill the morning with smiles, cheers, and team spirit as we celebrate these outstanding individuals and their accomplishments!

For more information, please contact:
Jen Krouse, Wood County Special Olympics Coordinator
jkrouse@woodcountydd.org
419-352-5115