The annual Special Olympics Torch Run recently made its way through Missouri and specifically, Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles. The Torch Run brought together families with special needs, team members and law enforcement on Thursday, June 1.

For the 19th year, Ameristar St. Charles was a stop along the nearly 1,500 miles. Team members cheered on their Sanitation team member, Jane, and law enforcement officers representing every branch in the state. The annual event pays homage to Jeff Ottenad and his family who created the event and continues to make the Torch Run a success year after year. The Torch Run brings awareness and helps raise money for athletes who participate in the interstate relay.

Ameristar St. Charles has donated $90,000 to support the efforts of the dedicated athletes, plus additional in-kind donations and volunteer hours from team members. This year, the casino-resort donated $5,000 to Special Olympics Missouri to help further their mission of providing year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

When asking Jane what her colleagues support means to her, she said, “It makes me feel good and it changes my life to work at such a great place.”

Thank you, Ameristar St. Charles’ team members, for making the day possible and supporting such a heartwarming organization!

To learn more about the positive impact we are having on our communities across the country, visit www.caringtheboydway.com.