'Just heartwarming': Alle-Kiski Inclusion Games to be held in September in Lower Burrell

Courtney Kobelenske recalls seeing a sea of purple shirts, signaling they were volunteers for the inaugural Alle-Kiski Inclusion Games, last fall at K-9 Officer Derek Kotecki Memorial Park in Lower Burrell to set up for the day’s activities.

Then came the blue shirts — representing the event’s participants — to play in events.

“It was amazing,” Kobelenske said. “It was definitely, for me, overwhelming.”

After the success of last year’s event, Kobelenske is bringing back the Alle-Kiski Inclusion Games on Sept. 2 at Kotecki Park.

The games are for those ages 5 to 21 with special needs who might have difficulty playing traditional sports.

The event is free.

“It was so fun,” she said. “I don’t know how to explain it. Everyone was just so happy.”

Kobelenske lives in Lower Burrell and co-owns Cora Lee Cupcakes in New Kensington. Cora, her 18-year-old daughter and a junior at Burrell High School, is on the autism spectrum and has a muscle issue that prevents her from participating in many activities.

Cora is able to participate in activities at the Alle-Kiski Inclusion Games.

Activities include cornhole — it “was a huge hit last year,” Kobelenske said — a softball toss, relay races and an obstacle course made out of pool noodles.

Water, snacks and juice boxes will be provided.

Kobelenske said Cora is why she does what she does.

“They need more,” Kobelenske said. “There isn’t enough stuff that is local for kids that need a little bit extra.”

Each child will have an adult volunteer to work through the activities, she said. Parents of the participants can sit back, enjoy and watch their child.

“My volunteers had just so much fun,” Kobelenske said. “It’s just heartwarming.”

Kobelenske thanked the city for its support. She also extended appreciation for Councilman Chris Fabry and Burrell physical education teacher Justin Miller for their work with the event.

“I couldn’t do it without those two guys,” she said.

Fabry said last year’s inclusion games was one of his favorite memories from the year.

“The kids had such a great time, and the parents could not have been happier,” Fabry said. “This year promises to be even bigger and better.

“Courtney has one of the purest hearts in the world and does a tremendous job for our kids that need a little bit extra attention. This event is a culmination of her efforts over the years.”