Your news: Jim Cerkleski and Clover Technologies honored for Support of Special Olympics Illinois

Jim Cerkleski and Clover Technologies of Hoffman Estates were recognized as outstanding supporters of Special Olympics Illinois when Cerkleski was awarded a Maggiano's Hero Award Nov. 30, at a dinner and presentation at Maggiano's Little Italy in Schaumburg.

For the fourth year in a row, Maggiano's Schaumburg has helped Special Olympics Illinois honor key volunteers and supporters in the Chicago area who have made major contributions to Special Olympics. Chris Boden, one of the broadcast team at Comcast SportsNet, was the emcee of the event that also featured Special Olympics Athlete-Global Messenger, Bridget Brown.

Since 1998, Cerkleski and his company, Clover Technologies Group based in Hoffman Estates, have enthusiastically supported Special Olympics Illinois. The relationship began when a business associate with a daughter in Special Olympics challenged Cerkleski to develop an idea in support of Special Olympics. In response, he implemented a statewide ink jet cartridge recycling program. Over the years, it has grown into a year-round campaign generating significant revenue for Special Olympics.

Jim Cerkleski and Clover Technologies Group have continued to support Special Olympics though sponsorship of local and major fundraisers. Cerkleski has also attended various competitions and has participated in fundraising events such as the Polar Plunge, Golf Marathon and Plane Pull. With the Special Olympics flag flying at his corporate office, employees and customers know where Jim Cerkleski's heart lies.

Maggiano's Hero Awards for 2010 were presented to:

Carol Kyle of Evergreen Park; Grant & Linda VanKerk of Downers Grove; Brinson Foundation of Chicago; Deerfield High School; Young Professionals Development Board of Chicago; John Nuzzo of Western Springs; Manteno Sportsmen's Club; Fran and Sal Falcone of Rolling Meadows; Jim Cerkleski & Clover Technologies Group of Hoffman Estates; and Don Barry/Beyond the Ivy, Chicago.

Special Olympics Illinois is a nonprofit organization offering year-round training and competition in 19 sports for more than 21,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities and more than 4,000 young athletes ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics programs enhance physical fitness, motor skills, self-confidence, social skills and encourage family support. If you are interested in learning more about Special Olympics Illinois, volunteering or providing financial support to help make Special Olympics programs possible, contact Special Olympics Illinois at (630) 942-5610 or visit soill.org.

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