Frequently Asked Questions
I will incur some credit card processing fees if I accept votes online. Will Fiesta Especial share in this cost?
Fiesta Especial acknowledges that each organization may incur some expense in fundraising whether it is postage, credit card processing fees, incentives, etc. Please know that votes will be documented and based on the number of dollars submitted to Fiesta Especial by each organization. Whatever the actual amount submitted by each organization is, will be the amount used to determine the organization’s finishing place in the competition. That is also the amount that will be split 50/50 between the participating organization and Fiesta Especial.
It seems as though this process might set the individual up for disappointment. If they go out and fundraise in hopes of getting selected and if they are short funding they don't get selected.
We believe that people with disabilities deserve the same opportunities as people without disabilities to participate in community life. Not every child
who competes in Special Olympics wins a gold medal. This does not mean that they should not train or compete. It just means that they are allowed to experience the same joys – and sometimes disappointments – that children who participate in typical sports get to experience. There is value in setting goals and working to achieve those goals. Each organization should make an effort to recognize the accomplishments of their candidates.
All participating candidates will be awarded positions on the Fiesta Especial Entourage and will be invited to participate in the Royal Court Meet & Greet, select appearances and in the Fiesta Especial parade as part of your organization’s representation. There is some level of recognition for everyone.
who competes in Special Olympics wins a gold medal. This does not mean that they should not train or compete. It just means that they are allowed to experience the same joys – and sometimes disappointments – that children who participate in typical sports get to experience. There is value in setting goals and working to achieve those goals. Each organization should make an effort to recognize the accomplishments of their candidates.
All participating candidates will be awarded positions on the Fiesta Especial Entourage and will be invited to participate in the Royal Court Meet & Greet, select appearances and in the Fiesta Especial parade as part of your organization’s representation. There is some level of recognition for everyone.
If I get a major contribution, are there recognition opportunities?
Yes, Fiesta Especial will work with your organization within the scope of the Royal Court to make sure major contributors are recognized in a mutually agreeable manner.
How many individuals can our organization nominate?
To submit a valid nomination for consideration, your organization must submit one male and one female candidate for one age group only. No more than one candidate pair may be submitted. Your organization must decide if you will be nominating for the 16 and up age group or the 15 and under age group.
What type of commitment is involved?
Each winning candidate will need to commit to attending the following events at a minimum:
- Fiesta Especial Coronation - Saturday, March 1st
- Fiesta Especial Royal Court Meet & Greet - Saturday, March 22nd
- Fiesta Especial Promenade & Parade - Saturday, April 12th
- 1 TV Appearance
- 1 Scheduled day of visitations
- 3 other appearances