White House helps honor anniversary of the Special Olympics

The White House recognized the accomplishment of the Special Olympics last evening in an event that saw the likes of Stevie Wonder, Dikembe Mutombo, and AOL's former exec. Steve Case.

Said the president, "The fact that so many accomplished, wonderful people are here is a testament to the impact that the Special Olympics has had on our nation and has had on our world. This organization has touched so many lives. And tonight, Michelle and I are thrilled that we get a chance to say thank you to everyone who’s been a part of it."

 

The Special Olympics was founded 46 years ago by Eunice Kennedy Shriver.

The event was marked by a performance by Katy Perry.

Others in attendance included Doc Rivers, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Jason Derulo, David Axelrod, HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Andy Roddick, Michelle Kwan, Scott Hamilton, Rep. Peter King, Rep. Xavier Becerra, Sen. Tom Harkin and Gavin Newsom.

President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama will serve as honorary chairs of the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles in 2015.

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