Kirkland Lake OPP Steps up for Special Olympics

Once again, members of the Kirkland Lake OPP have lent a helping hand to Community Living Kirkland Lake and Special Olympics.

On Friday May 24, the Annual Kirkland Lake Special Olympics Basketball game vs. the O.P.P took place at St. Jerome School.  As always, this event continued to be a success.  Both teams worked hard, had lots of fun and displayed admirable sportsmanship.  The Special Olympics team had contributions from everyone and was able to squeak out a victory in a five person shoot out at the end.  With the pressure on, Nathan Hutchison was able to knock down a clutch foul shot to put the Special Olympics team ahead and help them secure the win.  In addition to the game, a number of non-perishable food items were donated to the Kirkland Lake Food Bank.

The following Friday, The OPP took to the Streets of Kirkland Lake for the Annual Torch Run in support of Special Olympics.  They were joined by Community Living staff and supported individuals.  As they made their way through town, it was very encouraging to see the support from the community through cheers of support and on the spot donations.  The run started at Northern College and made its way to Pettenuzzo’s Your Independent Grocer where a fundraising barbecue was held with great support from the community.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those that took the time to help make these events possible. Thanks to the KL O.P.P for being a huge supporter of Community Living Kirkland Lake and participating in the game and the torch run.   As well, thanks to J.R. Daoust for volunteering his time to take pictures at the game.  To see more of these pictures please click here.  Dennis Perrault did an excellent job refereeing the game and adding entertainment. Thanks also to all the fans who came out to support the event and gave generously to the Kirkland Lake Food Bank.  Thanks to St. Jerome School for providing their gym for us to use. To Pettenuzzo’s for offering their location and securing donations for the fundraising barbecue and thanks also to all the staff and volunteers at Community Living who volunteered their time to participate and organize the game.   Last but not least, thank you to all the players on the Special Olympics basketball team.  Everyone gave their best effort, displayed excellent sportsmanship and played as a team.