SCHUYLKILL COUNTY, Pa. — The 3rd annual Special Olympics Skooktober Fest kicked off on Saturday at the New Philadelphia Little League field in Schuylkill County, and this year's fest also featured something new.
Alyssa Cook, a local student, set up the color run as part of a leadership project.
Terri Gibbons, Mayor of New Philadelphia, says, “And all the money she raised here at the color run profited our athletes so that they can attend all the events that they attend at no cost.”
Alyssa Cook of the 4-H Organization says, “It meant a great deal. I was excited. I was able to get my diamond project in addition to their fall fest.”
Skooktober Fest had food, a new duck petting station, the quackmobile, and vendors from all over NEPA, like Ruth Steinert Memorial with dogs up for adoption, a petting zoo, and more.
For some vendors, being here to support the Special Olympics means a great deal.
Suzanne Selman of Flint Hill Craft Co. says, “My cousin Kailey is a special Olympic athlete, um, so we love coming out and supporting her at all of her sporting events, and this was another fun opportunity.”
A portion of the proceeds from each vendor at Skooktober Fest goes directly toward the Schuylkill County Special Olympics.
Joseph Corby, Schuylkill County Special Olympics Community Leader, says, “Without the money that comes from those people doing different things. Some have little fundraisers. Some have golf tournaments, Special Olympics would probably not survive without the support.”
Inside the New Philadelphia Little League Baseball Field, Skooktober Fest had carnival games as well.
Special Olympics athletes like Kailey Jefferson say they just want people to come out to support them and, most importantly, have fun.
Kailey Jefferson, a Special Olympic Athlete, says, “It's a fun thing for everyone to get them out.”
Organizers say the color run will start next year with Skooktober Fest, followed by a parade.