Special Olympics names Debra Dion new regional director for Tri-Valley

Debra Dion Longtime San Fernando Valley resident Debra Dion has been named the new Regional Director for Special Olympics Southern California, Tri-Valley.

The organization includes all the cities of the San Fernando Valley and surrounding communities including Calabasas, Agoura and Westlake Village, serving more than 800 athletes.

Dion comes from a background in film production, sports marketing, and advertising. Her goals are to raise the profile of Special Olympics Tri-Valley in the community, reach more athletes, and search for new fundraising opportunities and alliances with local businesses.

"We are excited to have someone with Debi's experience and drive to lead our TriValley Program," said Jan Palchikoff, vice President for sports and field operations for Special Olympics Southern California. "I know she will take this program to new heights and is dedicated to ensuring a quality sports experience for our athletes."

"Seeing the athletes in action, in practice or competition is incredibly inspiring and guaranteed to pull at your heartstrings," said Dion. "They are what make me want to excel at this job, and I call out to the community to be a part of it."

Special Olympics is a yearround program of sports training and competition at no cost for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. About 12,500 athletes in 11 counties train and compete in 18 Olympic-type summer and winter sports. For information, visit www.sosc.org.