SPRINGFIELD, IL. – Special Olympics Illinois Region H celebrated another successful Row 4 Dough fundraising event, raising $16,673 to support year-round programming for local athletes with intellectual disabilities. The total marks the second-highest fundraising total in the event’s history and represents a significant increase over the 2025 total of $13,551.
Held on August 1 at Southwind Park, the Row 4 Dough presented by Jones Chiropractic brought together community members for a morning of fitness, teamwork, and philanthropy benefiting Special Olympics Illinois Region H athletes. Participants had the opportunity to compete individually or as teams in rowing challenges designed to test endurance while raising critical funds for Special Olympics programs.
Participants rallied support from family, friends, coworkers, and community members, helping make the event one of the most successful in its history. The event was emceed by DJ Blake from WDBR, whose music, enthusiasm, and passion for the mission of Special Olympics Illinois motivated rowers to push through to the finish.
“The continued growth of Row 4 Dough demonstrates the incredible support our athletes receive from the Region H community,” said Tara Nickerson, Assistant Director of Development for Special Olympics Illinois Region H. “Raising more than $16,000 and surpassing last year’s total by over $3,000 is a testament to the dedication of our participants, sponsors, volunteers, and donors who believe in the mission of Special Olympics Illinois.”
Funds raised through Row 4 Dough help provide athletes with opportunities to train and compete year-round while also supporting health, leadership, and personal development programs offered through Special Olympics Illinois.
Special Olympics Illinois Region H extends its gratitude to all rowers, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who helped make the 2026 Row 4 Dough a tremendous success. Sponsors of the 2026 Row 4 Dough in Region H included: Jones Chiropractic, Shane Sims American Family Insurance, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, Springfield’s #1 Hit Music Station 103.7 WDBR, Jones Drilling, and CORAL, and the Springfield Park District.