Team Communication #9

21 November 2016

Dear 2017 Austria Final Leg Team Members;

With the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday just a few days away, I just want to take a minute to thank each and everyone one of you, first and foremost for being the kind, caring, compassionate and selfless persons that you are, and for being a part of our Law Enforcement Torch Run family to benefit Special Olympics, especially as valued members of our 2017 Austria Final Leg Team!  In the U.S., this is the time of year that we sit back and reflect on everything that we are thankful for. I am truly thankful for having friends and colleagues like each of you who are so committed to helping our citizens with intellectual disabilities....not only in your official roles as law enforcement officers or Special Olympics staff, but what you give of your free time so passionately volunteering to raise funds and creating awareness for Special Olympics in some very unique ways.  Polar Plunges, Truck Convoys, Law & Order’s, Over the Edge, supporting Special Olympics events, as unified partners, coaches, you name it….what you do is so important for the athletes and our global movement!  What you do in your own countries, states, provinces and in your own communities, is truly remarkable and has had a profound effect on citizens far beyond your borders, helping to change perceptions and open new doors to individuals with intellectual disabilities.

THANKS FOR GIVING of your time, talent, dedication, commitment and and energy for Special Olympics!!!!

While this Thanksgiving Day on November 24th is a U.S. holiday, I think it is a fitting message for everyone all over the world, to sit back and reflect on all the blessings that have been bestowed upon us, and each and every one of you are a blessing to me in my book!  During the upcoming holiday season, I hope everyone will have the opportunity to spend time with your families and friends, slow down a little bit and enjoy the season!   

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

John

John Newnan

Team Captain

2017 Austria Final Leg

P.S.  Don't forget the upcoming "#Giving Tuesday," it is a great opportunity for outreach for your Schladming Splash Polar Plunge fundraising initiative! Get those e-mails crafted now!  Entering it's fifth year, #GivingTuesday is a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration.  Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving (in the U.S....November 29th this year) and the widely recognized shopping events, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable seaon, when many focus on their holiday shopping and end of year charitable giving. Since the inaugural year in 2012, #GivingTuesday has become a worldwide movement that celebrates and supports giving and philanthropy.