Dominique Moceanu and Jennifer Bricker - April 14 at the 11th Annual Special Olympics on Parade

© Off Balance

Anaheim, Calif. - April 04, 2013 - A talented and dedicated crew of volunteers from Special Olympics Orange County have been hard at work, planning the 11th Annual Special Olympics on Parade - Up, Up and Away! set for April 14 at the Anaheim Hilton.
This year, two Guests of Honor will be featured, 1996 Olympic gold medalist in gymnastic Dominique Moceanu and Jennifer Bricker.
1996 Olympic gold medalist gymnast, Dominique Moceanu, is considered one of the most accomplished gymnasts of the modern era. Her amazing story, described in the pages of her New York Times best-selling memoir Off Balance, speaks to the inner strength and courage she found to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Jennifer Bricker always had a passion for tumbling and gymnastics, despite being born without legs. She competed in power tumbling and won the Illinois State High School Tumbling Championship. A gifted athlete, she also played on her high school basketball and softball teams. In 1998, she completed in tumbling at the AAU Junior Olympics. Jen's athletic achievements were featured on Glee, Inside Edition, performances around the world under the direction of Heidi Latsky, and the Britney Spears World Tour. Jennifer's confidence in herself and enthusiasm for life are an inspiration to all.
The event is a moving celebration of the athletes who benefit from Special Olympics Orange County. From the heartfelt vocals of Special Olympics athlete Jay White to a triumphant Parade of Champions featuring Olympic greats, the event promises to be a remarkable evening for all. Up to 450 guests are expected to attend, with a goal of reaching $300,000 in revenue.
"I am impressed with our committee and the commitment they have to creating an inspiring event which celebrates the athletes," said David Armendariz, Regional Director for Special Olympics Orange County. "Every year, the committee grows the event and brings more people into our movement. Donations to this event will be used to provide a life-changing program that helps athletes with intellectual disabilities gain confidence and self-esteem through the power of sports."
Tickets for Special Olympics on Parade - Up, Up and Away! are $150 per person with sponsorship opportunities ranging from $1,500 to $20,000. To purchase tickets or to make a donation, visit http://www.sosc.org/soop or contact Joey Trama, Regional Development Manager, at (714) 564-8374 or Jtrama@sosc.org.