On the last day of  National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (Sept. 14-20), the 10th annual World’s Largest Convoy will take off from various locations throughout North America, bringing together truck drivers from around the country to raise funds and bring awareness for Special Olympics athletes.
The event, which is more like a big celebration, unites more than 1,000 truck drivers in 15 states and 4 Canadian provinces and collectively raised over $586,000 in 2013 alone. The funds help provide year-round programming in sports, health, education and community building to nearly 10,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
On September 20th, participating truck drivers, who often shine and decorate their trucks for the convoy, will meet at a staging location, then parade, as far as 50 miles, is escorted by local law enforcement to a predetermined destination such as a raceway, fairgrounds or truck stop.
At the location, they are welcomed by the Special Olympics community – the athletes, families, friends, colleagues, law enforcement officers, and the organizations that make up the trucking industry – and a big party ensues.
Entertainment, barbecue, an awards ceremony and a raffle are all included to recognize the support of the drivers and the trucking industry. Participants also receive a goody bag with items such as a T-shirt, hat, window cling commemorative pin, and any other locally donated items.
The message of gratitude posted on the Special Olympics website to the trucking industry: “Thank you for your support of Special Olympics athletes and for keeping our communities moving!”
The World’s Largest Trucking Convoy was started by law enforcement official Norm Schneiderhan, who found inspiration for the event through his participation with the Special Olympics in the Law Enforcement Torch Run, combined with his family’s involvement with the trucking industry.
For information and how to register at a nearby location, visit the Special Olympics website here. The minimum donation to participate in the Special Olympics Convoy is $100 per truck.
You can also contact Victoria Rivers, Administrative Assistant, Strategic Properties, Special Olympics at (202) 824-0341 or [email protected].
Check out this great promotional video by Special Olympics Wisconsin:
Sources
The Daily Herald Tribune
Photo Credit
spirit of america / Shutterstock.com
Video Credit