The Civitans organization encourages its clubs to seek out and meet needs within their communities, so when Terry Whitworth, district operations superintendent in Gainesville and member of the Lanierland Civitan Club, learned that there was no structured support system for the Special Olympics adult bowling league, his club focused its efforts towards helping the 21 years and older bowlers prepare for the Games.

“Providing aid to those less fortunate is a significant factor in the projects we focus on,” Whitworth said. “These adults have disabilities, but they are some of the strongest willed athletes you’ll ever meet.” Whitworth added that the support of the Special Olympians is a natural fit for the Civitans, and the enjoyment received from them, their spirits and attitudes is rewarding.

The Civitans, whose name is coined from the Latin word civitas, meaning citizenship, believe that their actions help build a better world. Whitworth and the Lanierland Civitans are passionate about their involvement with these athletes, their families and the community, and they believe they’re building a better world by providing financial, spiritual and physical assistance to the group.

Special Olympics provides sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics Hall County serves more than 500 athletes and the Fall Games will be held October 10th-12th. Learn more at www.specialolympicsga.org or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Special-Olympics-Hall-County/175891505791746.