I am 13 years old, and I am going to be in the eighth grade this fall at Skowhegan Area Middle School. I am a Star Scout of Boy Scout Troop 485 (Skowhegan), and I have autism. I am writing this letter because I am trying to get more funding for the Special Olympics of Maine.

I also participate in the aquatics team for the Special Olympics Maine Penobscot/Piscataquis/Hancock Counties and I love it! I am getting physically fit through practices as well as competitions! My goals are to continue on with Special Olympics, the Boy Scout Trail to Eagle, and when I am 15, I want to take a lifeguard course to seek employment as well as to make a difference in peoples lives.

Special Olympics serves an often underserved population in regards to physical activities, especially the adult population. It brings attention to disrespectful and bullying behavior towards this population. It promotes inclusive and appropriate language.

Special Olympics also does a lot of work to bring their athletes together with the general population through their ” Unified Team” concept. And Special Olympics has stepped up there game in regards to coaches’ training, so that athletes are learning special skills, sportsmanship, cooperation with teammates, and safety awareness in addition to participating in the sport.

Please help me in supporting the Special Olympics with more funding — it is a very important issue for me. Go to somaine.org to read more about Special Olympics of Maine, or to donate, or call 1-800-380-3071.

Dalton Curtis

Skowhegan