NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A new beginning is underway for Special Olympics Arkansas.
On Wednesday, the organization, along with Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders celebrated the groundbreaking of a brand-new and much-needed building. This new space will make a difference for athletes, volunteers, and staff.
"I think it's really important that people understand that it is our headquarters, it is our legacy," said Terri Weir, Special Olympics Arkansas CEO.
To show what the new space means to Special Olympics Arkansas, the organization decided to name it the Legacy Building.
"It's a place for us to create, a place for us to dream, a place for us to meet, a place for us to gather. More importantly, it serves the purpose of Special Olympics Arkansas," Weir described.
She also explained that they used to have their office on the same lot and used it for about 25 years until it flooded during an ice storm in 2021.
"That's when we had to move across the river for a little bit. We always looked to the future of coming back home," she added.
For athletes like Nathan McClain, it truly is a home.
"I would not be the man I am today without the influence of Special Olympics. I could not be more excited about this building. People often ask me what Special Olympics means to me, and I often say Special Olympics is like a family," McClain described.
He said that the new building will make such a big difference.
"This will allow athletes more access to our family. We have really needed this great home for so long, and I can't wait to see it go up," he added.
"We'll be able to expand, create more opportunities, more programs, expand some additional staff as well," Weir said.
Governor Sanders expressed that the new building will allow them to highlight abilities and not disabilities. It would help highlight the community and not just competition.
"It's about showcasing that everyone is special and everyone can be an athlete, everyone can help make Arkansas a healthier, a happier, more welcoming state," Gov. Sanders added.
Construction is set to start in August and the goal is to have the building finished by late next spring.
They are still accepting donations to help fund the new building and furnish the inside. If you would like to donate, please click here.