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A Letter from Robert A. Eckert

I can think of few other individuals who have the compassion and will to create lasting change than Eunice Kennedy Shriver. I had the privilege to meet Mrs. Shriver at her 85th birthday celebration at the White House. From the moment she entered the room, we were touched by her presence.

I have come to learn first hand the power of the Special Olympics movement through Mattel's corporate sponsorship. Each of the past five years, I have volunteered locally with Special Olympics to get recharged with the energy that the athletes bring to the competition. It is unlike anything I have ever experienced and it is a direct reflection of Mrs. Shriver's passion for teaching acceptance around the world.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver has truly changed lives and changed the way the world views children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The world is a better place because Eunice Kennedy Shriver touched it.

Robert Eckert