Special Olympics of Pasco was a featured charitable giving organization at the Pasco County Tax Collector’s office this spring. Special Olympics of Pasco is a sports and training program for people with intellectual disabilities. In Pasco, training in almost two dozen different sports are provided free of charge to participants. Next year, 2022, will see Florida host the National Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando. Many of the athletes featured in this drive will be participants in next year’s competition, for some a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! A total of $6,600 was raised to benefit Special Olympics of Pasco.

“On behalf of myself and the 1500+ athletes that are a part of Special Olympics here in Pasco County, we would like to say thank you to Mike Fasano, all of the employees at our tax collectors offices, and especially our community members for their generous and unwavering support of our athletes and organization,” comments Joeyn Dearsman, Special Olympics Senior Manager. “This campaign comes at a crucial time as we are sending multiple Olympians to the USA Games in the Summer of 2022. This donation will help cover the costs that go with that and ensure they have a great time! Thank you again!”

“Special Olympics of Pasco has long held a special place in my heart,” states Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “I’m proud that our staff and our community supports this organization that helps bring purpose to so many lives. The athletes and the volunteers who work with them are some of the kindest, most positive people I have ever met. So many of the athletes have intellectual challenges that make life difficult. To see the joy on the face of an athlete as they cross the finish line is indescribable. Special Olympics of Pasco provides a respite from the difficulties many deal with daily. It also provides a place to be with others who also aspire to do their very best.”