Proceeds from annual Dream House Raffle used to help SoCal Special Olympics all year
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The sixth annual Dream House Raffle is going on, and the proceeds will be used to help the upcoming Special Olympics.
The raffle also has a $5.5 million estate in Hidden Hills as the grand prize. The home features a gourmet kitchen, sprawling panoramic views and a tennis court. The winner can choose the home or take a $3 million cash prize. More than 1,600 other prizes will also be given out.
"The proceeds go to change the lives of people with intellectual disabilities, the athletes that compete in the Special Olympics for us," said Bill Shumard, CEO of Special Olympics Southern California.
That money helps Special Olympics athletes like Eric Chen and Matthew Raymundi, who has been participating for 17 years.
"Ever since that first day life's been good," Raymundi said.
Individuals supporting the Dream House Raffle are helping Special Olympics Southern California provide sports training and competitions at no cost to athletes and their families throughout the year.
"I like it a lot because anyone with intellectual disabilities can compete," said Everett Baxter, a Special Olympics athlete.
The Dream House Raffle has allowed the organization to increase the number of athletes served by 35 percent since 2009. There are now more than 17,000 athletes in Southern California.
"Our athletes are five times more likely to have a job than the typical person with intellectual disabilities," Shumard said.
If you want to support an athlete, donate here.
Tickets are $150 each or can be purchased in packs. Tickets can be purchased here.
