Special Olympics launches Facebook app to create awareness

The application invites individuals not only to donate their time or money, but also to rally their support by spreading the word online, through Facebook likes and updates, tweets and blog articles. It allows the user to choose from a number of quick facts to share with friends and followers, and to make a commitment to pass on their new found knowledge. 

Ho Lian Shi, head of digital at BBDO/Proximity, said, “I am completely amazed and inspired by their skill and passion. They have taught me a little bit about the strength of the human spirit – if you give something your all, you can achieve whatever you set out to do, it doesn't matter who or what you are.”

Edwin Lim, operations manager at the Special Olympics, meanwhile hopes that Singaporeans would not only pledge their support, but they would also volunteer in the athletes’ training sessions.

“I can’t wait to see people make their pledges online and start talking about the achievements of our Special Olympians. Here they will experience their (the athletes) incredible spirit and be able to see what amazing individuals these athletes truly are.”

Singapore currently has 1,500 athletes looking for the nation’s support.  At the 2011 World Games in Athens, the Singapore team won an amazing 37 medals, consisting 12 gold, 13 silver and 12 bronze.

The Special Olympics is a global organisation, providing sports training and athletic competition in Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual difficulties.