New Special Olympics Donation Opportunity

Beginning January 1, 2016 when Texas drivers register an automobile or renew a motor vehicle registration, they will notice a new option on the processing form that offers an option for donating $5 or more to Special Olympics Texas (SOTX).

Through the diligent efforts of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), SOTX’s largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle, Senate Bill 272, authored by Senators Kelly Hancock and Judith Zaffirini and sponsored by Representative Cindy Burkett, was passed in the recent session by the 84th Legislature. Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill on May 23, 2015, making it possible for Texas citizens to show support for SOTX athletes and law enforcement officers.

“The money generated from this fundraiser will significantly help Special Olympics Texas advance its effort in providing high quality competitions and other opportunities for current and future athletes,” SOTX President and CEO Margaret Larsen said. “Our Law Enforcement Torch Run program and state representatives worked tirelessly for a long time to make this happen, and that goes to show how important and how much our athletes are loved by people in Texas.”

The option will first appear when drivers renew vehicle registration at their county tax office or online in counties that offer online payment. Drivers will also be able to mail in their donation with the paper form once SOTX is added to the list of donation options later in 2016.

SOTX becomes the fourth organization to obtain approval from Texas lawmakers for receiving voluntary public funding from Texas motorists, joining Texas Parks and Wildlife, The Fund for Veteran’s Assistance and Donate Life Texas.

For more information about making a donation to SOTX through the Texas Vehicle Registration process, visit www.sotx.org/giveus5 or contact your local county tax office.