What a great day for a walk!  The 2026 Howard County Inspiration Walk was held on Saturday, September 12.  The new location at Color Burst Park was a great venue for our event and provided an opportunity for athletes to participate in a fun day of music, prizes and celebration.

There was a lot to celebrate.  2026 marked the 25^th anniversary of the Inspiration Walk and SOHO Director Bob Baker recognized the founding member of the walk who have provided their support from the very beginning (Bob Baker, Kevin Colabucci, Barbara Evans, Jen Gallagher, Beth Greenberg, George Guthrie, Marilyn Miceli, Diane Mikulis, Cole Schnorf, Joe Wagner, Allan Waschak, and Clyde Wrathall).  Special guests County Executive Calvin Ball and Special Olympics Maryland President Jim Schmutz spoke to encourage and inspire our athletes. Christiana Rigby From the Howard County Council presented SOHO with an Honorary Resolution to recognize the 25^th anniversary of the walk and the achievements of the athletes.  Congratulations to our amazing volunteers, without whom Special Olympics would not be possible:  Laurie McSweeny (Volunteer of the Year), Chris Warren (Coach of the Year), The Lair Family (Family of the Year).  Additional kudos go out to Abby Penenburgh, our Lifetime Achievement Award winner.

The Oriole Bird, Andy, the Texas Roadhouse mascot, and dancing and music provided by DJ Steve Towne kept us all entertained.  Participants enjoyed the hospitality and treats from Dunkin Donuts, Eggspectations and Texas Roadhouse.  Prizes included a bag of Oriole gear, SOHO and Outback merch, gift certificates to our online merchandise store and a basket of honey.  Additionally, 47 attendees won raffles to local restaurants including Maggiano’s, Medium Rare, Outback and Ranazul.  Many thanks to all of our other corporate sponsors:  ARCO, Bohler, Charm City Run, Cushman & Wakefield, Freedom Technology Solutions Group, FTK Group, Hillmuth Autocare, Howard Hughs Corp, Inner Arbor Trust, J.E. Schenk & Associates, Lisa Higgins-Hussman, Manekin, Rodgers Consulting, Shipley & Horn, Tenable and The Wendy Slaughter Team.

Have you donated yet?  There’s still time!  The Inspiration Walk is an important fundraiser that allows us to provide year-round sports training and competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities free of charge. We rely on the generosity of contributors to pay for competition, uniforms, equipment and facilities. Are you the parent of a Special Olympics athlete? Just think of all the benefits your athlete has gained through Special Olympics – improved physical fitness, the opportunity to compete, increased self-confidence, new friendships. This is your opportunity to give back so that Special Olympics can continue to provide sports opportunities for your athlete.  

 You can donate by CLICKING HERE  or by sending a check to our office (SOHO, 8970 Route 108 Suite A1, Columbia, MD 21045).

We need your help and we appreciate your support!