BY BETH KNOX - PRESIDENT AND CEO, 2018 USA GAMES

When the opportunity came for me to serve at the helm of the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, I immediately understood the significance an event of this magnitude represented to the Puget Sound Region, and was incredibly honored to lead the efforts. Over the past year and a half, we have built a talented team, secured valuable partners, raised critical funds and worked on plans for a truly spectacular event in July of 2018.

Recently, I traveled to Austria for the 2017 Special Olympics Winter World Games, and had the chance to see first-hand the thrill and excitement of athlete competition. What an incredible experience! The air crackled with anticipation as 6,500 athletes from around the world came together to represent their countries and compete against peers in hopes of bringing home a medal.