Keith Strange | The News

The Surry County Board of Commissioners recognized three residents instrumental with the Special Olympics during its meeting Monday night. With the board are volunteers, from left, Nicole Jordan and Kim Inman and Athlete of the Year Neal Joyner.

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DOBSON — The Surry County Board of Commissioners took a moment out of its agenda Monday night to honor three residents for their efforts supporting the Special Olympics.

The recognition came as the board met in the Commissioner’s Meeting Room at the County Government Center in Dobson.

During the meeting, the board recognized 2012 Athlete of the Year Neal Joyner, Volunteer of the Year Kim Inman and long-time volunteer Nicole Jordan.

Joyner was recognized not only for his winning record after decades competing in the Special Olympics, but for his work raising money to help others participate. He has participated in the county’s Special Olympics since 1978, and has traveled across the country competing.

He has raised thousands of dollars over the years, helping more than three dozen athletes fund their involvement this year alone through the Adopt an Athlete Program.

Inman has served not only as a volunteer and member of the Special Olympics Fundraising Committee, but this year was solely responsible for funding efforts that brought in more than $15,000 for uniforms and expenses.

Nicole Jordan has volunteered with the Special Olympics since her years as a student at Mount Airy High School, and serves on the county’s Special Olympics Committee and the fundraising committee.

She has served as interim local coordinator for the program, as well as assistant coordinator for the county’s Special Olympics.

Reach Keith Strange at kstrange@heartlandpublications.com or 719-1929.