For Immediate Release

02/02/2021

Special Olympics Rowan County Moves to Rowan County Parks & Recreation

At its meeting February 1, 2021, the Rowan County Board of Commissioners approved bringing Special Olympics Rowan County under the leadership of Rowan County Parks and Recreation. Special Olympics Rowan County had been previously under the leadership of the YMCA of Rowan County, who will remain an important partner, even after this transition.  

“We are proud to be a driving force for social inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in Rowan County,” said Edward Hailey, Rowan County Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor and newly appointed Local Program Coordinator for Special Olympics. “Bringing Special Olympics Rowan County to the County’s Therapeutic Recreation Division is a natural fit given our expertise in providing programming for individuals with disabilities,” Hailey continued.  

In this volunteer position, Hailey will lead in the implementation of Special Olympics activities within Rowan County by leading a committee that will provide sports training, competition opportunities and health and wellness initiatives for children and adults who have intellectual disabilities. Hailey will also work in recruiting, training and managing local volunteers and work to increase athlete participation as well as raise funds in support of the local program. 

With prior experience volunteering locally as a Special Olympics Rowan County committee member, Hailey is prepared to lead Rowan’s program, which includes 400+ active athletes, and to expand its offerings.  Learn more about Special Olympics Rowan and this year’s Polar Plunge-in-Place.

###

Contact: 
Edward Hailey
704-216-7782
Edward.hailey@rowancountync.gov

Download Press Release: Special Olympics Rowan County Moves to Rowan County Parks & Recreation (PDF)