A partnership between Beaufort/Hyde Special Olympics and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office made Christmas a little bit merrier this year.

Deputies aided the Special Olympics committee and athletes in planning and assembling a float for the Washington Christmas parade, according to Special Olympics volunteer Sara Benish.

“The Christmas float was wonderful, thanks to Lt. Kelly Cox, his officers, volunteers and those who donated candy to give out,” Benish said. “Kelly provided the model-sized sheriff’s car for the float and the officers who came out sure made our athletes feel so special.”

According to Cox, the sheriff’s office is honored to assist with Special Olympics projects.

“We’re doing this with the full blessing of Sheriff Ernie Coleman,” Cox said. “It lets us show the softer side of law enforcement; this shows that we can let loose and have fun.”

Cox said sheriff’s office personnel joined with the Special Olympics committee in November 2014 for a fundraising event. They also help with the organization’s spring games held at Washington High School.

That means a lot to Special Olympics volunteers and, most of all, the athletes.

“The deputies are willing to go above and beyond the normal call of duty to help others and be a blessing for our athletes,” Benish said. “Kelly has a light about him when leading his fellow officers and others see it as well. The deputies and McGruff the Crime Dog are huge hits with all the athletes and volunteers!”

Participating in the Washington Christmas parade also allowed the Special Olympics volunteers and athletes to share an important message with the public.

“On our banner we had the scripture from Psalms, we are all wonderfully made,” Benish added.