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With all the activities and technology available to kids these days, it's a wonder any parent hears complaints of boredom from children. Compare their demeanor to the lives of disabled individuals – there are no afterschool groups, chess club, sports or regular formal dances – yet, one would be hard pressed to find happier people.

Luckily there are organizations and people who understand the plight of families caring for the disabled and give their time and talents to create events and happenings geared toward brightening the lives of those living a life under the helpful eyes of caregivers.

One such endeavor is the annual Special Olympics at the regional, state and national level. With huge support from law enforcement, organizations and other interested parties, eligible participating athletes have something big to look forward to every year.

"It is a really big deal for these athletes," said Karen Knutson, whose son Justin has been a repeat athlete with the local Super Hawks team. "It is also a healthy, positive setting for caregivers and family members to watch these athletes light up with joy and be in a group of hundreds of others who are in the same boat. No one is staring or giving weird looks, as is often experienced around the general public. There are only smiles and happy looks of understanding."

Sanders County has consistently sent Super Hawk athletes to the state games to "compete" (the term is used loosely, as there is less of a feel of competition at the event filled with camaraderie). Knutson noted that the only way attendance is possible is through donations from the community.

"In the past, we have had enormous community support and help from the Law Enforcement Torch Run organized by deputy April Phillips – and formerly by the late officer Dave Hedley," Knutson said. While there is still heart-warming support, according to Knutson, the numbers have gotten smaller. She noted that Phillips could probably use more assistance in the Torch Run from volunteers and others in the Sheriff's Office, as participation is starting to wane. Also needed is a volunteer coach or two to accompany the athletes to the Special Olympics.

"Don't get me wrong, there is great support from everyone in the community, as always. I just feel the labor of love could become a heavy burden without many hands to make the work light," Knutson clarified. Those who don't have the time to volunteer but would like to help can do their part through donations (checks made out "SOMT care of Super Hawks" ensures the local team benefits from the donation).

But the athletes and families also have another avenue with potential rewards for supporters. Raffle tickets are sold per state every year with very generous prizes from businesses. A new truck is the grand prize from the raffle, but other winners can claim prizes including $1,000 gift certificates from businesses such as Murdoch's and Scheel's Sporting Goods. Town Pump certificates are up for grabs at $1,000, $2,000 and $3,000 increments.

"With barely a million people in Montana, your odds of winning are way better than in more populated states," said Knutson, "and we'd be happy to come to you for the sale of the $5 tickets if you are laid up at home or stuck at work." A purchased ticket automatically gives the buyer free breadsticks at participating Pizza Huts (a $4.49 value), making the ticket's actual cost fifty-one cents when redeemed with dinner.

This year the Special Olympics will be held in Great Falls, Tuesday, May 15 through Friday, May 18. Any volunteer stepping up to help coach would help an athlete with the required eight practices prior to the event, accompany the cheery participant for the duration of the schedule, and enjoy dining and hotel lodging, as well as some great company. Those who have volunteered in the past can attest it is a memorable experience that can become a yearly habit. Competition events include running, jumping, softball shotput and other track and field activities.

April 27, the Super Hawks hope to be in Kalispell for the regional Special Olympics (again, assuming there is enough local support this year). The event is open to eligible athletes over 8 years old. April 26, the day before the competition, is Knutson's granddaughter Brooke's birthday, making Karen a proud coach with two family members participating.

"Really, what else do these kids have to look forward to? These kinds of activities are the highlight of their year," said Knutson, showing off Justin's rows of ribbons earned for placing in events. Also on his trophy board is a shiny plastic crown fit for a prince or king – a memento from another event geared toward the differently-abled (they are not 'disabled' according to Karen, they just have different abilities. Can you elicit a smile from a passerby the way these kids can?) "Football player Tim Tebow works with regional areas to fund and put on the Night to Shine dance," Knutson explained. "He started with the idea that many of the differently-abled never get asked to prom or other formal dances, so he decided to create a formal just for them." She added that Caroline Troutman, of Trout Creek, had tuxes fitted for the dance hopefuls. Although Troutman's formal collection is usually utilized by lower-income traditional prom goers and wedding parties, these Night to Shiners will be dressed to the nines for the night.

The evening is filled with tuxedoes, ball gowns, crowns and even red-carpet treatment. Shoes are shined at the event by volunteers, entertainment and refreshments are provided, and a full-blown dance ensues. Photos from past events hint that participants in the pictures did not have to be prompted to smile. "It's a magical night for those who get to go," said Knutson, "there's really nothing like seeing those happy faces, all dressed up with somewhere to go." Night to Shine will be held Friday, February 9 at Canvas Church in Kalispell.

All in all, any support goes a long way for the Super Hawks. With lodging for the Special Olympics totaling about $2,500, food and other needs have to be funded.

"We'll pay our own way in transportation if we have to, it wouldn't be the first time," said Knutson, who is hoping there will be enough raised to make the trip happen.

Those who wish to support the Super Hawks team monetarily, or by purchasing raffle tickets, or by volunteering as a coach (each athlete must have a coach or they cannot attend), can contact Karen Knutson at 529-3356 or by mailing checks made out to "SOMT c/o Super Hawks" to Super Hawks, 1801 E. Main Street, Thompson Falls, MT 59873.