Shaw Industries has announced its sponsorship of the Special Olympics Georgia 2013 State Fall Games, a three-day event that will attract more than 1,300 athletes and 500 coaches from around the state. Shaw is sponsoring the Opening Ceremony on October 11 at the Dalton Trade Center and awards presentations for all of the sporting competitions. Additionally, 100 Shaw associates will volunteer at the event throughout the weekend.

“Shaw is proud to sponsor the Special Olympics Georgia State Fall Games for the third consecutive year,” said Shaw President Randy Merritt. “Shawʼs associates share a passion for the communities in which we work. We are honored to be a part of this event, which helps the Special Olympics fulfill its mission to change lives by promoting understanding, acceptance and inclusion between people with and without intellectual disabilities.”

This yearʼs State Fall Games will consist of softball, bocce, cycling, long distance walking and running, and golf competitions taking place at venues throughout Dalton,Ga.

“Special Olympics Georgia is all about year-round sports training, competition, better health and connecting families. We continue to serve more children and adults with intellectual disabilities and continue seeing them succeed in a positive environment. Thanks to the thousands of volunteers who assist Special Olympics Georgia and the 25,878 registered athletes,” said Georgia Milton-Sheats, chief executive officer for Special Olympics Georgia.