Special Olympics of Pasco was the featured charitable giving organization at the Pasco County Tax Collector’s office in February. Special Olympics of Pasco is a sports and training program for people with intellectual disabilities. In Pasco, 1500 students participate in Special Olympics. Training in almost two dozen different sports is provided free of charge to participants.
During a special event at Cypress Creek High School Pasco Tax Collector Mike Fasano, joined by athletes who participate in Special Olympics of Pasco as well as coaches, parents and volunteers, handed to Amy Selvey, Pasco County’s Director of Special Olympics, a check totaling $9,382.04, which was the full amount raised on behalf of the program.
“We’re overwhelmed by the generosity and commitment the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office has shown toward the athletes of Special Olympics of Florida,” said Special Olympics of Florida’s Regional Director Jessica Ott. “Mike Fasano and everyone in his office have done so much for our athletes and our mission to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are treated with dignity and respect and given the opportunities they deserve. We’re incredibly grateful.”
“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 support an organization that helps bring purpose to so many young 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 as it is. To find that their unique athletic talents can be used to not only bolster themselves but all of Pasco County’s Special Olympians is truly a wonderful thing. To see the joy on the face of an athlete as they cross the finish line, or their team wins a game, truly touches one’s heart. I extend my thanks to the many people in our community who stepped up to donate to Special Olympics of Pasco. Your gift means more than you may ever know!”
For more details regarding the charitable giving program, or services provided by the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, please contact Greg Giordano, Assistant Tax Collector at 727-847-8179 or visit www.pascotaxes.com. For more information about Special Olympics of Pasco please contact Amy Selvey, Pasco Special Olympics Director at 727-492-8413 or visit www.specialolympicsflorida.org/westcoast
Photo caption: Far left – Tax Collector Mike Fasano shakes hands with Special Olympics Director Amy Selvey. Center – Special Olympians who represent Pasco. Far right – Tim Couet, Chief Deputy Tax Collector.