Lawrenceburg, IN—The Management Team of Special Olympics Indiana – Ripley Ohio Dearborn Counties announces with deep regret and concern the cancellation of our 9th Annual Fire Truck Pull in partnership with the Lawrenceburg Fire Department. After much thought and discussion, the team decided to not host the 2020 fundraiser due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, all Special Olympics’ in-person practices, competitions, events, and social activities at all levels of the organization have been canceled through June 30th. In these unprecedented times, the team realizes there is no guarantee that all restrictions will be lifted in time for the fundraising event scheduled for August 15th.
“The decision was not easy”, stated Greg Townsend, Program Coordinator of Special Olympics Indiana-Ripley Ohio Dearborn Counties. “Especially since the proceeds generated by the Fire Truck Pull are used to fund our fall and winter activities, if Special Olympics Indiana and Special Olympics International should decide to lift the suspension due to the pandemic”, added Townsend. According to the CDC, people with intellectual disabilities (ID) or developmental disorders are at increased risk of contracting COVID-19. In addition, people with ID experience higher rates of chronic health conditions that also put them at higher risk of serious illness and poorer outcomes from COVID-19. Special Olympics competitions and events are opportunities for entire communities to come together in support of Special Olympics’ vision. But, unfortunately, that joining together poses significant risks for everyone involved.
The Fire Truck Pull, presented by the City of Lawrenceburg, would not be possible without the many volunteers, the Lawrenceburg Fire Department, and sponsors that contribute to putting on such an event each year. The Management Team and the Fire Truck Pull Committee looks forward to the 2021 Fire Truck Pull and hopes to see the return of all Pull Teams and sponsors.
