Special Olympics Virginia
Farm Bureau Insurance provides annual statewide support of Special Olympics Virginia by sponsoring athlete participation, an annual golf event, softball skills at the Summer Games and SOVA volunteer of the year awards.
Local athlete sponsorship allows Special Olympians to participate in SOVA’s largest state competition with more than 1,200 athletes and 2,000 volunteers. The sponsored athletes represent each county in which Farm Bureau has offices across the Commonwealth.
"One really has to participate in a Special Olympics event to appreciate the courage and desire that these athletes possess," said director of sales for Farm Bureau Insurance Donnie Knowlson. "By sponsoring an athlete from every county, our corporate interest elevates statewide and further exemplifies our commitment."
Since 1990, Farm Bureau Insurance has been a key supporter of SOVA and its athletes. In October 2001, Farm Bureau Insurance became title sponsor of the Special Olympics Virginia Golf Championship.
Aside from financial support, hundreds of Farm Bureau employees have served as volunteers, working in the family hospitality area and organizing the Softball Skills Competition at past Summer Games.
Special Olympics Virginia, the state program of Special Olympics Inc., provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for more than 14,000 children and adults with mental disabilities at no costs to the athletes or their families.