Volunteers are sought for Special Olympics bowling

The Sweet 16 doesn't have to be entirely set aside for the cream of the college basketball ranks.

In this particular case, that number represents the amount of volunteers sought after by the Special Olympics Pa Carbon County for their annual bowling competition.

The fourth annual SOPA bowling competition will be held Saturday, Feb. 27 at Haja Lanes in Palmerton. Arrival times for volunteers is 2:20 p.m., athlete registration is 2:30 p.m., and the event start time 3 p.m.

Sheri Anthony, volunteer co-coordinator for SOPA, said being a volunteer has been one of the highlights of her life.

"I love our athletes," Anthony said. "They are such wonderful human beings. I feel so honored and privileged to have been given the opportunity to be a part of their lives."

Anthony said her time spent with the athletes has been an eye-opening experience.

"Some of these athletes have very trying backgrounds and lives both physically and mentally, and through it all they still are warm and loving individuals who always have a smile on their face," she said. "We all could learn a lot about life and how to treat others from them and their families."

Anthony said it's important for those who can offer help to do so to help make the world a better place.

"One person can't do everything, but everyone can do something," she said. "It is so, so true."

All interested volunteers are asked to contact Anthony at 610-826-5810, or 610-737-0469, or sheri@ptd.net. to confirm their participation

For more information regarding SOPA, visit www.specialolympicscarboncounty.com.