Marklund residents take part in annual Summer Games

More than 200 volunteers supported Marklund residents as they participated in the organization’s annual Summer Games event.

The 116 residents from the Marklund Hyde Center in Geneva and Wasmond Center in Elgin enjoyed a combination of carnival-style games and various assistive challenges during the tropic-themed event which took place on Saturday, June 8, at the Hyde Center campus.

Main competitions included races for those using walkers or walking with assistance, those using power wheelchairs, and others on therapy bicycles. In all races, the participants were assisted/guided by therapy staff or family members.

Participants also took part in a Marklund-style baseball game in which players were helped one-on-one with batting and fielding while many others cheered on from the sidelines.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am to be here today with you all,” said Gil Fonger, Marklund’s president and CEO. “The Paris Olympics has nothing compared to the 2024 Marklund Summer Games! Seeing everyone here today, and the residents with such enthusiasm and excitement, brings tears to my eyes.

“Thank you to the hundreds of volunteers who are here today. Thank you to the Marklund staff — every day you show up to help provide our mission of making everyday life possible for individuals with profound disabilities to those whom we serve. Enjoy the day!,” Fonger said.

Founded in 1954, the Marklund organization serves infants, children and adults who have severe and profound developmental disabilities.

Marklund’s therapy staff developed the organization’s Summer Games in 1985 since Marklund residents were unable to take part in official Special Olympic games due to the severity of their disabilities.

Residential and education facilities are located in Geneva, Bloomingdale and Elgin. For information, visit www.marklund.org or facebook.com/MarklundCharity.