Mitchell Gordon Memorial Fund
Over 30 years of supporting Special Olympics Southern California
The Mitchell E. Gordon Memorial Fund, created by his family and friends, celebrates Mitch’s life by supporting a cause he embraced: Special Olympics Southern California. As a small but mighty group, the Mitchell E. Gordon Memorial Fund celebrates over 30 years and more than $755,000 now raised to benefit Special Olympics Southern California athletes. Through fundraising events and recognizing Special Olympics athletes, the group has changed the lives of thousands of people with intellectual disabilities – as Mitch had in his life.
ABOUT
Mitchell Gordon
Mitchell E. Gordon was a giant among his family and friends, not only because of his six-plus foot height and stature, but also because he was a gentle leader, loved by those who knew him. Mitch passed away unexpectedly in 1987 from natural causes. He was only 33-years-old.
During his youth, Mitch had volunteered as a coach for Special Olympics Southern California athletes. His friends and family believed it apropos for Mitch’s name and goodness to live on and be celebrated annually through a cause he embraced. So, the Mitchell E. Gordon Memorial Fund was born.As a small but mighty group, the Mitchell E. Gordon Memorial Fund celebrates over 30 years and more than $755,000 now raised to benefit Special Olympics Southern California athletes. Through fundraising events and recognizing Special Olympics athletes, the group has changed the lives of thousands of people with intellectual disabilities – as Mitch had done before the fund.
Special Olympics is the largest sports organization in the world. In Southern California, its mission has remained unchanged for fifty years: To provide sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for people with intellectual disabilities.</p>
<p>Its mission is being fulfilled every day in Southern California as thousands of volunteers and family members help to train, coach and encourage the heroics of thousands of athletes from 9 Southern California counties participating in Special Olympics programs. Special Olympics Southern California continues to provide “training for life” as athletes build on their athletic successes and gain courage to try new endeavors in all areas of their lives.
Harry Gordon
The story of Mitchell Gordon would have never been told if it weren’t for this man, Harry “Hot Rod” Gordon, father to Mitch, friend to many. To have had the privilege to know Hot Rod, well for those of us who did, he helped shape many of our lives and was such an incredibly positive influence on us. This man welcomed us in his home and made us feel a part of his family. A mentor, father figure, friend and sometimes a bookie (Hot Rod liked to bet on the games)…His passing was a turning of a page…though he may not be here physically; he will never be far as he holds a place in our hearts. He will be sorely missed, and fondly remembered. So here’s to you Hot Rod