Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa region has launched its first Web site: http://www.somena.org/. The new site will play a key role in realizing one of the region's communications goals - to spread the message, mission and values of Special Olympics throughout the Middle East/North Africa region. The site, launched in Arabic in its initial phase, complements the region's ongoing efforts to provide all types of resources to Special Olympics Programs in Arabic. Future plans call for the site to be available in English as well. Launched on 26 March 2003, the new site provides an overview of Special Olympics sports, initiatives, activities, competitions and athletes. It is expected to provided valuable information for athletes, coaches, volunteers, family members, press and supporters. The construction of the site was a collective effort of Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa staff who worked to ensure the new site is informative, engaging and beneficial to all visitors. Information on the locations of Special Olympics Programs in the region, including a brief overview of each Program, is part of a "Find a Location" link that will enhance awareness of Special Olympics within each Program's respective country. The new Web site is intended to be the channel through which the Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa office will communicate with the society, sharing the beliefs and experiences of the movement and helping ensure a better life for Special Olympics athletes in the region. The highlight of the site is the true stories about Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa athletes, coaches and volunteers who share their wonderful moments being part of Special Olympics. Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa Managing Director Ayman A. Wahab commented, "I urge each and every Special Olympics Program in the region to start the process of developing its own site on the Internet. We are ready to provide all the technical support needed to guarantee the Special Olympics identity is well maintained." He continued, "Congratulations for the new site. I'm looking forward to hearing from our Programs with their feedback on the experience." |
