AMAD

Athletes Making a Difference
A Community Outreach Program

Co-sponsored by Chattooga Gymnastics and Special Olympics-Cobb

  

Chattooga Gymnastics and the Cobb County Special Olympics Gymnastics Team are initiating a community outreach program called Athletes Making a Difference.  Our mission is to provide the opportunity for at risk students without intellectual disabilities to participate on a team, promoting self-confidence, self-esteem, team spirit, and cooperation.

Students who are selected will participate in Special Olympics events as Unified Partners.  They will attend artistic and rhythmic gymnastics training sessions with the Cobb County Special Olympics Gymnastics Team.  Each student will be paired with a Special Olympics athlete for competition.  Other activities may include community exhibitions, as well as Chattooga and Special Olympics functions.

We are asking the help of teachers, counselors, and friends in the community to identify students who would benefit from the AMAD program.  Applicants must be able to participate in group activities without displaying disruptive behavior.  They must have transportation to Chattooga School of Gymnastics, 4005 Canton Road, Marietta, Georgia  30066.  Each applicant must submit a completed application form and a letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or family friend to Chattooga, at the address above.

There will be no financial obligation required from the selected students.  AMAD is fund raising to support the program.  Tax deductible contributions may be made to Cobb County Special Olympics, earmarked for AMAD, and mailed to Chattooga, at the address above. 

At present, we are accepting a maximum of 12 girls, ages 8-up.  Our goal is to select these students and begin practice immediately, with the first competition being the Special Olympics Winter Games in January, 2009.  Attached is a cover letter and application form to give prospective AMAD participants.

What is the program? 
Athletes will participate in artistic and rhythmic gymnastics training sessions and competitions as unified partners for the Cobb County Special Olympics Gymnastics Team.

What is the required time commitment?
Athletes will attend one gymnastics practice session per week at Chattooga.  Athletes may choose to participate in any gymnastics competitions and other activities offered to the team.

What is the financial commitment?

All financial obligations will be covered by AMAD, including competition entry fees and uniforms.  Athletes are encouraged, but not required, to participate in fund raising projects.

Who is eligible to participate?

Girls ages 8-up, without intellectual disabilities, who can benefit from the experience of being a part of a team.

What is the application process?

A completed application form and a letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor or family friend must be submitted to Chattooga Gymnastics, 4005 Canton Road, Marietta, Georgia 30066.  Applicants will be notified of acceptance shortly after the application is received.

Click Here for AMAD Applications

Thanks you for your support and help in recommending students to AMAD!  If you have questions, please contact Cindy Bickman at 770-924-2832 or cbickman@earthlink.net.