Dream House Raffle To Benefit Special Olympics Southern California

STUDIO CITY (CBS) — Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) is preparing to launch its third annual Dream House Raffle, offering a $2 million home or cash payout of $1.5 million. Rafer Johnson and Special Olympics Athlete Debi Anderson stopped by KCAL9 Wednesday to talk about the raffle.

Capturing the glory of early Hollywood, the stately 1917 two-story Hollywood Hills residence boasts five bedrooms, four and a half baths, an expansive master suite with luxurious master bath, maid's quarters, formal dining room, breakfast suite and wood-paneled wine cellar. Walled and gated for the utmost privacy and discretion, the Mediterranean residence features rolling grounds, lush greenery, oversized terraces, pool and spectacular Los Angeles city views. The home is located next to Lloyd Wright's Sowden House, renowned for its unique architectural style and design.

Last year, the 2011 Special Olympics Dream House raffle netted more than $800,000 for the organization. All net proceeds from the 2012 Dream House Raffle will benefit nearly 11,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities in Southern California, impacting Special Olympics athletes from San Diego to greater Los Angeles county (LA, OC , Inland Empire) and as far north as Bakersfield and San Luis Obispo.

Funds raised from the 2012 Dream House Raffle ensure the continuation of life-changing programs offered at no cost to the athletes. From competition, training programs, and venue rentals to coaches, sporting equipment, transportation costs, or even meals at competitions, thousands of SOSC athletes will benefit from the campaign.

Those who purchase tickets before the "early-bird" deadlines are eligible to win prizes leading up to the grand-prize drawing. From February to May, there will be a monthly drawing for additional cash prizes that range from $1,000 to $25,000. Additional prizes will be awarded during the grand prize drawing, including a 2012 Toyota vehicle. The entry deadline for early-bird drawings is February 17, March 16, and April 13, 2012.

To learn more about the 2012 Dream House Raffle, click here.