Mr. Vic Rauter, TSN and Ms. Christina Campbell, Special Olympics Athlete and STAPLES Business Depot Associate25th Anniversary Special Olympic Festival
On December 5, 2007, the Special Olympics Festival celebrated its 25th Anniversary. The star-studded Silver Anniversary event brought together more than 40 celebrities and over one thousand guests to honour Special Olympics athletes and their families, volunteers and supporting organizations.
The Special Olympics Festival began in Toronto 25 years ago by three men; Mr. Bruce Etherington, Mr. Brian Etherington and Mr. David Garard who wanted to give back to the community through a fundraising breakfast featuring celebrity athletes. The Special Olympics Festival has since developed into the signature national fundraising program supporting Special Olympics programs across Canada.
The 25th Anniversary Special Olympics Festival took place at the Westin Harbour Castle with a full day of events, beginning with the Special Olympics Festival Celebrity Breakfast hosting over 1200 guests, followed by the Darryl Sittler Celebrity Face-Off Challenge sponsored by SUBWAY® Restaurants. The evening events started with the Special Olympics Festival Black Tie Gala, where more than 900 guests mingled with celebrities and Special Olympics athletes while bidding on more than 150 live and silent auction items. Special Olympics Festival guests were also entertained with great performances by Steven Page and Brent Butt. Following this years Gala Dinner guest continued to celebrate at the inaugural Special Olympics Festival After Party; the newest addition to the Festival line up.
The 25th Anniversary Special Olympics Festival was a true celebration of Special Olympics athletes and their achievements. Special Olympics athletes also benefited from the generosity displayed by Mr. Barry Pike, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of PLM Group who made a $100,000 donation at the Special Olympics Festival.
