Special Olympics fund donates $27G to Saugus schools

SAUGUS – The Saugus School Committee accepted a donation from the Saugus Agganis Special Olympics Fund for the special education department at Thursday night?s meeting.The donation was for nearly $27,000. Steve Agganis, founder of the organization, was there to present the gift to the committee.The committee thanked Agganis? tireless efforts for this cause.?He has done so much for that department and those kids,” Superintendent Richard Langlois said. “It really is amazing. He does great work for those kids.”Each year the organization holds the Special Olympics at the Saugus High School athletic field. Last year was their fifth annual event and they raised $30,000.?It is a lot of hard work,” Chairman Wendy Reed said. “It is a wonderful event.”Agganis was excited that each year the event keeps growing and raising more money. “Each year it keeps growing bigger and bigger. We have to give back to these kids. These kids give us 10 times more in their love,” Agganis said. He attributes the large donation to generous spirits in the community. “No one said no to me,” Agganis said.During the first year of the organization and the Special Olympics, $6,000 dollars was raised. “I thought that was a lot,” Agganis said. “Then I was like ?wow?.”The $27,000 donated will go to busing, teacher aids and nurses for the special education department at Saugus schools, says Agganis.Agganis is quick to thank the town and school committee for their support. “Without the money and support from the town we wouldn?t be able to support the kids,” Agganis said. “And we can?t let that happen.”Along with supporting a wonderful group of kids, the Special Olympics has created a sense of community in Saugus.?It is a community-building event,” Vice Chairman Thomas Stewart said. “It feels good to be a part of and is good to see in the community. It does a lot of good for everyone, not just the kids.”Agganis continues to make each year bigger than the last. “It really is magical,” Agganis said as to the importance of the event.