Leafs Chad Kilger, Argos Keith Pelley and Peterborough Police Chief Terry McLaren Inducted into Special Olympics Sponsors Hall of Fame

By Michael Chung

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Toronto Maple Leafs’ Chad Kilger and Toronto Argonauts’ President Keith Pelley have been inducted into the Special Olympics Ontario Sponsors Hall of Fame, along with Peterborough Police Chief Terry McLaren. The Hall of Fame recognizes volunteer fundraisers and directors who’ve made significant contributions to benefit Special Olympics athletes.

“Keith Pelley, Chad Kilger and Chief McLaren exemplify the vision and drive of volunteers who for more than 40 years have enabled Special Olympics Ontario to continue to expand our programs exponentially,” said Special Olympics Ontario CEO Glenn MacDonell. “They are Hall of Famers in the eyes of Special Olympics athletes, their families, and their communities.”

MacDonell said police officers in Ontario have contributed enormously to Special Olympics by championing The Law Enforcement Torch Run fundraising campaign. Chief Terry McLaren was instrumental in that movement, elevating him into the volunteer Hall of Fame.

“Chief McLaren runs one of the outstanding Torch Run programs in the world,” MacDonell said. “He also encourages his officers to participate and recognizes them in a model example of leadership where Special Olympics is the beneficiary.”

Pelley has demonstrated his commitment and passion for Special Olympics repeatedly, both during his time at The Sports Network (TSN) and now in his role leading the Toronto Argonauts.

“For me, this is recognition of all the great work Special Olympics volunteers do collectively. And ultimately, we all do it for the Special Olympic athletes, who are the real heroes,” Pelley said.

Kilger, a Toronto Maple Leaf forward, has also given tirelessly of his efforts, even during a busy NHL season, to support Special Olympics with his time and dedication.

“I appreciate the fact that there is something I can do as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs to help raise awareness about Special Olympics and the great work they do,” Kilger said. “But what I do personally is a very small piece of the puzzle compared to the amazing efforts of these Special Olympic athletes.”

Special Olympics is a charitable organization that uses sport as the vehicle to inclusion and integration. In September of 1989 the Special Olympics Sponsors Hall of Fame was instituted to recognize the builders and volunteer fundraisers who through their individual or collective efforts make Special Olympics Ontario a stronger more valued “cause”.

Since 1989, a total of 78 individuals have been inducted into the Special Olympics Ontario Sponsors Hall of Fame.