The state of Nebraska was eager to host the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games on July 18 - 23, and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln served as home base for the participating athletes and provided venues for several events.

The Special Olympics provides year-round sports, training and athletic competitions in a variety of sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness and self-confidence as well as to demonstrate courage and participate in sharing their skills and friendship with others.

The University of Nebraska is also proud of its own programs and services to assist individuals with intellectual disabilities, including the exceptional efforts of the Munroe-Meyer Institute (MMI) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

For more than 50 years MMI has specialized in helping people with genetic disorders and developmental disabilities. Its focus areas include education, research, training, clinical services and outreach to support individuals with special health care needs and their families.

“I would like to thank Munroe-Meyer Institute from the bottom of my heart, because I have a daughter who can now tell me that she loves me."

The mission of the institute, however, extends well beyond its Omaha clinic and research. More than 230,000 people in Nebraska have disabilities, and there is a real effort at MMI to train specialists who can help people all across the state.

To best understand just how meaningful the services of Munroe-Meyer are to Nebraska families, all one needs to do is ask the grateful parents who experience the miracles that take place each day.

As one very grateful mother said, “I would like to thank Munroe-Meyer Institute from the bottom of my heart, because I have a daughter who can now tell me that she loves me.

A teary-eyed father adds, “Thank you, Munroe-Meyer. You’ve changed my son’s life and mine.”

Lend support to programs and services at Munroe-Meyer Institute.

Event causes big splash for a good cause

The second annual BIG splash event is on Aug. 21, 2010, in Omaha. The event focuses on helping individuals with developmental disabilities and genetic disorders unlock their potential. People of all ages and abilities can participate in a variety of swim competitions, with all proceeds going to the Munroe-Meyer Institute.

“Munroe-Meyer Institute is all about children with disabilities being part of the community and helping them to achieve everything they can achieve,” said Mike Leibowitz, director of the institute. “BIG splash makes those ideals a reality.”

Learn about BIG splash and register.

The University of Nebraska Foundation is pleased to be the designated charitable partner for BIG splash, and all donations go directly to support the Munroe-Meyer Institute. Last year, more than 200 swimmers participated in the first-ever BIG splash event and raised more than $32,000 to help provide clinical services to more than 10,000 individuals and families. Funds also were distributed to research and to explore innovative therapies that offer new ways of helping individuals with disabilities.

Make a gift to the MMI BIG Splash fund.