January 30, 2026
The temperature hovered in the teens for the 2026 Special Olympics Michigan State Winter Games, but the chilly weather didn’t dampen the spirits of the athletes or volunteers.
“It’s been really heartwarming,” said Tpr. Amy Belanger, Community Service Trooper, who works in the Flint area. “You can’t wipe the smiles off our faces.”
Photo credit: Special Olympics Michigan
The mostly outdoor, three-day sports competition took place this week at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, Schuss Village at Shanty Creek Resort, and Howe Arena in the Grand Traverse area with more than 800 athletes participating in alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and figure skating.
Inspiration and positivity are always in abundance, but as the event approached the MSP learned that Special Olympics Michigan needed more volunteers.
Photo credit: Special Olympics Michigan
“We were told law enforcement participation was down for this event,” said Sgt. Don Stewart of the Grants and Community Services Division. “That’s all we needed to hear. I put out the call, and we immediately had troopers who wanted to help. It’s the first time many of us have attended, but it won’t be the last.”
The MSP has strong ties to Special Olympics Michigan and the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which is the largest fundraiser for Special Olympics, but this is the first time a large group of our Community Service Troopers (CST) had the opportunity to assist. Ten CSTs from across the state helped hand out awards and medals to athletes.
“Everybody is in great spirits. I think that’s what’s unique about this,” said Tpr. Tom Fick, Community Service Trooper serving the Grand Rapids area. “During volunteer check-in, they indicated this surpasses Disney World as the happiest place on earth and I believe it. Everyone is just on cloud nine.”
Photo credit: Special Olympic Michigan
