Warm Boots, Warm Hearts: Athlete Leaders Step Up to Give Back

The Special Olympics New Hampshire Athlete Leadership Council (ALC) is leading a powerful project this fall — one that’s all about giving back.

In partnership with Isaiah 61 Café in Laconia, a community space that offers meals, showers, clothing, and encouragement to people in need, athlete leaders have set a goal to collect 60 pairs of new, warm, waterproof boots before winter arrives.

“As athletes, we’re used to receiving support — friendships, opportunities, and training. Now, we want to use our leadership skills to give back to others.”

Martha Boddy, athlete leader & member of SONH’s ALC

Each pair of boots represents warmth, dignity, and care for someone who needs it most this season. The boots will be delivered to Isaiah 61 Café after the Champions Together Breakfast in late November.

How You Can Help

You can join the effort in a few easy ways:

Bring new winter boots (men’s sizes 9–11, women’s 8–10, preferably dark colors) to:

Send a gift card ($50, for boots) to:
Dawn Longval c/o SONH Boots
100 New Salem St.
Laconia, NH 03246

Add a note of encouragement!
A kind word or short message will be included with the boots to brighten someone’s day.

Step Up and Support

Isaiah 61 Café serves hundreds of people each year who are experiencing homelessness or hardship. By leading this project, SONH athlete leaders are showing what true inclusion and community look like — using their voices, energy, and compassion to make a difference. Every pair of boots makes a difference — not just in keeping someone warm, but in reminding them that they are seen, valued, and cared for.

Together, we can help them reach their goal of 60 pairs of boots and spread warmth across the Granite State this winter.