The 2011 Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games is a provincial event that relies on community participation and support to be successful.

“Thunder Bay is the city with the Giant Heart and the response to the Games has reinforced that designation,” says Constable Julie Tilbury, 2011 Special Olympics Provincial Winter Games Manager.

Indeed, the initial call for volunteers met with an “overwhelming” response, according to the event website, with over 500 respondents. No additional volunteer applications are being accepted.

Some area residents are getting creative in their efforts to raise money for and awareness of the upcoming Games. The premise of one initiative that raised over $40,000 can be summarized with its rather intriguing name: Kidnapped 4 A Cause.

“I am very proud to say that our business community has been very supportive through our sponsorship program,” says Tilbury. “In addition to our corporate sponsors, we are also very pleased to welcome Fort William Historical Park as a partner of the 2011 Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games. This partnership will add a true Thunder Bay identity to the Games.”