$12,000 Raised for Special Olympics Vermont

WILLISTON, VT - In true Olympic spirit, Vermonters went for the gold and raised $12,000 for local athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Lenny's Shoe & Apparel held a month-long Olympic donation event, and the store and its customers collectively raised $12,000 for Special Olympics Vermont. Lenny's co-owner Mark McCarthy presented that donation to Jeff LaBonte, Board Chair of Special Olympics Vermont.

With the theme “Support, Shop and Save” customers were challenged to make a gold, silver, or bronze level donation and in-return received a discount on their purchase. In addition to these gracious discounts, Lenny's also made a contribution every time Team USA won a medal during the 2012 Olympic Games.

“We enjoy the festive spirit the Olympic Games create in the United States and found a way to share that spirit within our community,” said McCarthy. “Making a donation to Special Olympics Vermont allows us to share the joy of sport locally during this global event. We are blown away by the generosity of our customers and this $12,000 donation far exceeded our expectations.”

Pictured from left: Shelby Hilferty, Assistant Manager and event creator, Lenny's Shoe & Apparel; Jeff LaBonte, Board Chair, Special Olympics Vermont; Bobbie Jo Roby, District Manager, Lenny's Shoe & Apparel; Joshua Beaupre, athlete, Special Olympics Vermont; Mark McCarthy, Co-owner, Lenny's Shoe & Apparel; Chris Bernier, Director of Marketing and Development, Special Olympics Vermont.

About Special Olympics Vermont
Special Olympics Vermont is part of a global movement that works year around to foster inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities by using the power of sport to showcase their gifts and abilities. For more information, visit www.specialolympicsvermont.org

WPTZ Newscast
Vt. store makes Olympic-themed donation to Special Olympics

Fundraising Award
Special Olympics Vermont recognizes Lenny's as their 2012 Fundraising Organization of the Year!