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The Spirit of Giving
For Immediate Release: December 22, 2008 When it comes to setting a precedent for giving, and continuing to raise the bar in support of Special Olympics Texas (SOTX), Don Houston and the GEO Group stand out. 2008 marks the 10th year of involvement for both, during which time they have donated a tremendous amount of time, money and effort to support SOTX. When asked why he and the GEO Group decided to focus their efforts on SOTX, Houston explained that they were seeking an organization in which they could involve their entire region, down to the local facilities (they are also supporters of the movement in Oklahoma and Louisiana). Here in Texas, employees fundraise year-round with the culmination of their efforts resulting in an annual golf tournament. To date, they have raised more than $750,000 for SOTX's building fund through a variety of creative ventures. They have done everything from growing hay on empty fields they owned for sale, to bake sales and car washes, to involving their vendors for support. "Special Olympics Texas commends the GEO Group for 10 years of service to our athletes," said Margaret Larsen, President & CEO. "They are ensuring this organization's future; they saw a need and dedicated themselves to supporting our mission and more importantly, the more than 30,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities who are a part of our program." Their hard work doesn't fall to the few and mighty; it is truly a team effort. All of their employees are involved at some level. Houston was quick to point out that they feel they receive much more in return than what they give, "When you meet the athletes and see an event happen, how can you not participate? Personally, I find our involvement very rewarding and at an organizational level, there is tremendous value. You can see the benefit by attending one event, hearing an athlete or parent speak about the impact of Special Olympics Texas makes you realize that you are doing the right thing." The mission of SOTX holds a special significance for Houston, who is a former Special Education teacher. Passionate about his participation, he has expanded his involvement beyond fundraising as well. He served as a speaker at the 2008 International Law Enforcement Torch Run Conference and served on the SOTX President's Advisory Council. Houston says he'll be involved as long as he is allowed, "It is something that we, as a company, believe in giving back to the community. It is our way of saying thank you." It is SOTX though, who owes the thanks to a tremendous organization and its' employees. Thank you, GEO Group!
Kelly Coffey |
Created by the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation. Authorized and Accredited by Special Olympics, Inc.,
for the Benefit of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities. |
