08/19/2026
👏👏👏 Amazing read on Minnie and Vincent
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The format of the LPS Run may be changing this year, but its purpose remains as strong as ever: raising funds to support local Special Olympics programs.
This year, we are highlighting the incredible local people whose dedication, talents and contributions as Special Olympics volunteers and athletes continue to inspire us.
💙Volunteer Spotlight: Minnie Groten💙
For Minnie Groten, Special Olympics is all about family, community and creating lifelong connections.
At 95 years old, Minnie has been a dedicated Special Olympics volunteer for more than 30 years. After immigrating to Canada in 1956 and settling in Lethbridge in 1993, she began volunteering with Special Olympics in 1995, the same year her son, Vincent, joined as an athlete.
Over the years, Minnie has worn many hats with Special Olympics, serving on the board, contributing to the social committee, coaching 5-pin bowling and supporting countless events and athletes. In fact, her commitment to helping others extends well beyond the organization. She also volunteers with the Heart & Stroke Foundation, her church and St. Michael's Health Centre. Her dedication was recently recognized with both the Volunteer of the Year Award for 2025/2026 and a 30-Year Service Award.
When asked why she got involved all those years ago, Minnie says she was inspired by Vincent and the friendships formed through Special Olympics. She hopes the organization continues to foster the sense of belonging and family that has meant so much to her.
And what's her secret to staying active at 95? With a laugh, Minnie shares: "Burger King, every Thursday!" 🍔
🌟 Athlete Spotlight: Vince Groten🌟
The reason Minnie first became involved with Special Olympics was her son, Vincent, who has been a Special Olympics athlete for 31 years.
Now 55 years old, Vince competes in both bocce and bowling. Last week, he achieved another milestone by competing at the 2026 National Summer Games in Medicine Hat, his first national event after his bocce team earned a gold medal at the 2025 Provincial Games in Grande Prairie.
When he's not training or competing, Vincent is busy giving back to his community. He volunteers at the Ability Resource Centre, helps care for animals at the Humane Society, supports the local food bank and spent 25 years as an altar server at his church before stepping aside to give younger members the opportunity.
A proud uncle to many nieces and nephews, Vincent believes in staying active, helping others and never giving up.
When asked what he'd like to see for the future of Special Olympics, Vincent says he hopes more funding can be raised so even more sports and opportunities can be offered to athletes.
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Stories like Minnie's and Vincent's remind us why we support Special Olympics and why events like the LPS Run matter. Every dollar raised helps create opportunities, build confidence and make dreams possible for athletes in our community.
To register or donate to the LPS Run, visit www.lethbridgepolice.ca/lpsrun.
Special Olympics Alberta- Lethbridge
