Big-D St. Paul, MN Office Supports Special Olympics Through Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving

A day of giving to benefit the 2022 Special Olympics turned into much more after Big-D Midwest purchased sub sandwiches for their team and discovered the cause unwrapped a few personal connections. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

“My son Luke is 30 years old. He has a cognitive impairment; he was born six weeks early, and his lungs weren’t developed, which caused oxygen deprivation in his brain. He started doing the special Olympics when he was 11-years-old. He excels at sports, and he loves doing it!” said Sr. Superintendent Patrick Rodgers for Big-D Midwest.

Each year participating Jersey Mike’s Subs donates 100% of their daily profits to benefit the Special Olympics USA Games and Special Olympics state Programs. Nationwide, a full day of sales brings in an estimated $10 million – to charity. This year, Big-D Midwest jumped in on the national fundraiser and sent a companywide email treating associates to lunch.

“It touched me that Big-D would offer all of us sandwiches for this event Jersey Mike’s puts on and I just want to say thank you from me and my son because it helps him continue going on,” said Rodgers who has been with Big-D Midwest for four years. Throughout his 38-year construction career, Rodgers worked hard to care for and create a comfortable life for his son and the Special Olympics brought out a passion in Luke for floor hockey, baseball, and basketball.

“I was a single dad, so seeing him get physical was cool, and he loves sports. It’s very exciting to watch him play!” said Rodgers.

“If you ever have a chance to witness one of the events the Special Olympics has, I highly recommend doing so. Participants, like my son Luke, look forward to every event so they can play and socialize with others. They do not know the meaning of losing!” said Rodgers.

Jersey Mikes changes their charity each year, and Big-D Midwest continues to participate and support the event.