WESTPORT — A Westport man who has been a volunteer coach, team organizer and manger for Special Olympics Connecticut athletes for more than 35 years has received the organization’s 2024 “Unsung Hero Award.”

Richard “Dick” Harris was presented with the award Monday at the annual awards ceremony hosted by Special Olympics Connecticut in Southington.

While volunteering for the Special Olympics in various roles for more than 35 years, Harris has coached track and field and swimming.

He also served as local coordinator of the “Our Vision” team, which is open to  athletes of all abilities in Westport and surrounding communities. In that capacity, Harris managed the team, coordinated practices, recruited coaches and volunteers, accompanied athletes to state Special Olympics games and celebrated participants’ achievements by hosting an annual awards banquet, according to the award announcement.

Harris also involved Our Vision team members in Special Olympics Connecticut’s annual Fairfield Penguin Plunge fundraiser, which helps to support athletes and activities around the state.

He is now a mentor to newer leaders of the Our Vision team.

For more information about the Special Olympics Our Vision team, email ourvisioninfo@yahoo.com. For general information about Special Olympics Connecticut, email specialolympicsct@soct.org or call 203-230-1201.