Back on October 31, Clarkston resident and Notre Dame Prep sophomore Ryan Thorpe partnered with Friends of the Waterford Warriors to gather donations, assemble, and deliver Halloween care packages to 38 developmentally disabled athletes ages 30 and up.
Thorpe harnessed the power of social media to gather donations from publishers in Ohio and Michigan as well as UWM in Pontiac. He was able to deliver activity books, reading materials, toiletries, and Big Ten swag to brighten the athletes’ days.
The Waterford Warriors gives those with special needs an opportunity to continue participating in team sports after graduation. Before COVID-19 hit, they regularly bowled, played hockey, basketball and volleyball but have had to forgo that due to health risks.
Team members range in age from 20 to 60.
Thorpe’s next goal is to get a social media presence going for the Warriors to help with fundraising and volunteerism.