(Norristown, PA, September 24, 2009) – The Reading Elks 115 was recently honored at Special Olympics Pennsylvania’s (SOPA) annual Leadership Banquet in Harrisburg, PA on Saturday, September 12, 2009 as the Sponsor of the Year.

“Each year we honor some of our finest volunteers, supporters and athletes,” said Matthew Aaron, SOPA President and CEO. “They are true leaders in our program and we are blessed with their unyielding passion for our mission of changing lives through sports.”

The Reading Elks 115 has provided the SOPA Berks County program with extraordinary donations of time, resources and funding. With a total contribution of $100,000 received since 2001, this sponsor enables the program to reach new heights. They supply volunteers to assist as chaperones, bus drivers, cheerleaders, and volunteer recruiters.

With a history of giving to a variety of organizations that support the health and well‐being of children and young adults with special needs through special events, baseball leagues, and the purchase of equipment, it is clear that the Reading Elks 115 is deserving of this honor.

SOPA Leadership Award recipients were chosen by a statewide panel of business and community leaders representing both the private and nonprofit sectors. Nominations come from local Special Olympics programs throughout Pennsylvania.