JEDDAH, 21 May 2004 — A swim team of the Help Center is representing the Kingdom at the Special Olympics, which is currently being held in Rhodes, Greece. The event, which opened on May 13, ends on Sunday.
Four swimmers from the Help Center are members of the official delegation of the Saudi Arabian Special Olympics Committee. They are competing in the 50 meters and 100 meters backstroke as well as the 50 meters and 100 meters free style.
This is the first time that the Help Center swim team participates in the Special Olympics. The Help Center previously competed in many national events around the Kingdom, and in many instances brought back medals. Gandour Confectionaries is officially sponsoring the Help Center swim team, providing sportswear and covering all expenses related to the travel of the Help Center swim team.
Swimming is an integral part of the comprehensive curriculum of the Help Center. Swimming, both fun and therapeutic, allows for children to develop their gross motor skills as well as coordination while enjoying it. Founded in 1985 by the Late Ahmed Juffali, the Help Center is a private philanthropic charity organization that provides services to children with mental disabilities, from birth until 18 years of age. More details are available on its website www.helpcenter.med.sa