Special Olympics Stamps Issued; Athletes Want to Hear from Fans!

The U.S. Postal Service celebrated the 2015 Special Olympics World Games by issuing the Special Olympics World Games Forever stamp.

The stamp will be sold at Post Offices nationwide. The stamp commemorates the flagship event of the Special Olympics movement, the Special Olympics Summer World Games, which occur once every four years will be held in Los Angeles this year from July 25 to August 2.

More than half a million spectators will enjoy nine days of challenging and inspiring international competition as more than 7,000 athletes from 177 countries compete in 25 Olympic-type sports. The athletes will include 344 from the United States.

The annual Special Olympics Colorado Summer Games will be held in Grand Junction from June 5 through 7.

In honor of the release of the Special Olympics World Games Forever stamp, the U.S. Postal Service is inviting the American public to write letters of encouragement to Special Olympians. Here are some tips:

• Start with a salutation, such as "Dear Athlete" or "Dear Special Olympics athlete"
• Express your thanks to them for representing the United States at the World Games
• Share a little about yourself: family, hobbies, school or pets
• Talk about your favorite sport or event at the World Games
• Still can't find the words to express your support? Draw a picture instead using the Special Olympics World Games logo
• Use your first name only and no addresses, please
• Do NOT ask for personal contact information such as names, phone numbers or email addresses.

Mail your letters to:

Special Olympics USA

c/o National Events
475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, RM 10545
Washington, D.C. 20260