Mary Anne Ehlert Former Special Olympics Illinois Board Member Supports Row 4 Dough with a Surprising Outcome.
Mary Anne Ehlert has been involved with Special Olympics Illinois for more than 40 years as a former board member, supporter, family member, and new this year, Row 4 Dough participant.
Recently, Mary Anne has participated in rowing groups through Hydrow, an interactive online rowing experience. After learning that Row 4 Dough encompassed a virtual option this year, she reached out to some rowing companions to help form a team. The response was overwhelming with 50 individuals interested. Team PT (Protected Tomorrows) Hydrow formed five teams of 10. Of the 50 participants, many have rowed not only thousands, but also millions of meters over the years, so it is safe to say they were happy to participate.
Mary Anne funded $500 for each team along with fundraising from the individual rowers. All five teams rowed their way to a total of $3,520.
The most surprising coincidence about the group was the number who were involved in Special Olympics. Some have an athlete in their family, some are coaches, and others just embody the Special Olympics mission.
Participant Megan Morrison is involved because of her role as a teacher. “I work with many amazing atypical students who demonstrate every day what it means to rise to challenges,” said Megan.
Algonquin PD to Support Special Olympics Row 4 Dough with 11 Rowers. Written by Sgt. Dennis W. Walker of the Algonquin Police Department.
Our team name is Algonquin PD Row for SO. We are comprised of 11 Algonquin Officers including Chief John Bucci, Sgt. Andrew Doles, Sgt. Timothy Cooney, Officers Haley Bucheleres, Joseph Cisneros, David Gough, Daniel Klocke, Steven Skrodzki, Brandon Watson, and Trevor Wogsland, and myself.
This is our first year participating in Row 4 Dough, but have been involved in many awareness and fundraising events which include, Cop on the Rooftop, Plane Pull, Texas Roadhouse, Summer Games, and other local events. Our team has raised over $1,000 to benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois.
Speaking for our team, we enjoy serving and representing our local and state athletes with hopes to raise funds and awareness on their behalf. I have fond memories of my mother taking me out of school for the day to watch a neighborhood friend compete in the Spring Games at Bloom High School. Because of that experience, I have formed strong relationships with many Special Olympics athletes.
During my time as a School Resource Officer at Jacobs High School, I had the opportunity to support and engage with student-athletes for almost nine years.
Participating in Row 4 Dough has allowed us to support Special Olympics Illinois athletes across the state as well as our current High School Resource Officer, Andrea Treml.