Union Mutual partners with Special Olympics for Summer Games

Union Mutual of Vermont, the central Vermont-based insurance provider, has signed on to be the presenting sponsor of the 2015 Special Olympics Vermont Summer Games. This annual competition event will be held May 29-31st at the University of Vermont’s athletic complex and the Williston recreation fields.

“Special Olympics Vermont is focused on giving children and adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a fantastic event.  As a Vermont based company originally created by friends helping friends and neighbors helping neighbors, the Union Mutual of Vermont Companies are honored to support Special Olympics Vermont, its athletes, their families and communities,” reported Union Mutual President and CEO Michael Nobles.  “We look forward to sharing the joy of the Olympic Games with all of them.”

Summer Games is the largest and most visible celebration of Special Olympics Vermont athlete skill, determination, and sportsmanship. May 30-31st nearly 500 athletes will compete in track & field, aquatics, and bocce at the UVM athletic complex, and softball at the recreational fields in Williston. In addition to competition events, athletes will have access to free health screenings through the Healthy Athletes Program, family activities, and social events throughout the weekend.  During the day on Saturday, Union Mutual representatives will host Olympic Town, providing activities, games and prizes for athletes and their partners when they’re not competing.

Union Mutual volunteers will also be on hand throughout the weekend to assist with Awards Ceremonies, running the bocce competition venue, and hosting Olympic Town.

“It’s an ideal partnership for us,” says Lisa DeNatale, President and CEO of Special Olympics Vermont. “Union Mutual offers financial support that allows SOVT to train coaches, purchase equipment and run the event as well as a team of enthusiastic volunteers.  We’re thrilled to have them on board for 2015.”

Prior to Summer Games, Union Mutual employees will participate in the Unified Relay Across America (URAA), a relay event that will unify the nation as it delivers the Flame of Hope to Los Angeles for the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games. Vermont URAA relay segments will take place on May 26th in Montpelier, and 27th in Barre with a community celebration on the State House Lawn on May 26th at 5 p.m.