Special Olympics Chicago provides year-round sports training, recreational and social programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and closely related developmental disabilities. But the organization's athletes have a lot more going on than just sports. We spoke with three Special Olympics Chicago athletes and found out their favorite places to eat, shop and hang out in their respective neighborhoods.
Also, don't forget to check out the Special Olympics World Games, which are running through August 2 in Los Angeles.
Luis Iwamuro, 20, from Lincoln Park
Favorite spot to eat: Basil Leaf Café — "I love to go there with my Dad."
Favorite place to shop: Sports Authority (1801 W Fullerton Ave) — "My favorite place to shop is Sports Authority. I love to play sports and look for equipment there."
Favorite place to hang out: Ray Meyer Fitness Center (2235 N Sheffield Ave) — I love to play basketball with the DePaul students and practice my skills.
Robert Sniegolski, 57, lives in West Beverly
Favorite place to eat: Chi Tung, Barraco's Pizza and Pappy's in Evergreen Park — Robert also loves Clear View in Alsip, where he hosts his birthday luncheon every year.
Favorite place to shop: Argires in Alsip and Joe and Frank's Sausage Company in Oak Lawn.
Favorite place to hang out: Arena Lanes in the winter and Fountain Hills Golf Club in the summer, where he plays golf with other Special Olympics golfers.
John Fajdich, 51, lives in South Chicago
Favorite place to eat: "I love going for family dinners at the Purple Steer in Whiting, Indiana. They have great chicken fingers and chicken wings."
Favorite place to shop: Sports Authority — "I love Sports Authority. I buy all my golf and bike equipment there."
Favorite place to hang out: Veteran's Memorial Park — "I have a lot of friends who hang out there. I love to bowl, so I also like to go to Olympia Lanes bowling alley in Hammond, Indiana."