Sleepy Hollow vegetable stand grows support for Special Olympics

Supporters of Special Olympics have a special place in Debbie Ford's heart.

Her daughter, Sarah, who was born with Down syndrome, has participated in Special Olympics Illinois since she was 5 years old.

Now 12, Sarah competes in track and field events as an athlete with the U-46 BlueStars, Elgin Area School District U-46's Special Olympics team.

"Having Special Olympics means the world to us because it shows that the athletes are just as good as everyone else," said Debbie, an Elgin resident. "They're no different from anybody else."

On Sunday, the Ford family attended the fifth annual Randy's Vegetables Corn Roast Fundraiser in Sleepy Hollow, which offered train rides, games, face painting, a car show and raffles. All proceeds from the event went to Special Olympics Illinois so athletes and their families can be involved for free.

"That's why these events are so important," Ford said. "It means the world that people are willing to do this for us and that people come out and support the athletes."

Randy's Vegetables, located off Randall Road, teamed up with the Sleepy Hollow Police Department to host the fundraiser. Christine Gaitsch, who owns the farm stand with her husband, said the partnership - and the dedication to the cause - began after attending her first Special Olympics games with one of the officers.

"You're hooked. That's all it is," Gaitsch said. "Everything about (the fundraiser) is all about the cause."

Last year, the benefit raised more than $5,600, Gaitsch said. Turnout was a little lower this year, likely because temperatures reached more than 90 degrees, she said.

But the heat couldn't keep away Mary Joy of Crystal Lake, who said the event brings needed attention to Special Olympics.

"It's great that small entrepreneurs are supporting the cause and bringing the community together," she said.

The event also serves as part of a yearlong fundraising campaign to support the Law Enforcement Torch Run, where police officers from across the state run to benefit Special Olympics.

"It's great to support these athletes because Special Olympics shows them what they can do," said Joe Pilarski, crime prevention officer with the Carpentersville Police Department and a volunteer at the event. "It helps build up their self-confidence. People with Special Olympics have the biggest hearts I've ever known."