UW Summer Olympians are supporting the athletes of Special Olympics Washington
As the Paris Olympic Games commence on July 26, so will The Whole U’s UW Summer Olympics Challenge.
While going for the gold by meeting daily wellness goals of exercise, nutrition, hydration, mindfulness, connection and kindness, UW Summer Olympians are also contributing financial support to a favorite nonprofit organization: Special Olympics Washington, which will mark its 50th anniversary in 2025.
Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968. She was moved to create an opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities like her sister, Rosemary, to play sports and feel included. Since the first International Special Olympics Games that Shriver helped launch in Chicago, the organization has grown into a global movement with more than 5.7 million athletes competing in 200 countries and jurisdictions.
In the United States, there are Special Olympics chapters in all 50 states.
Special Olympics Washington was selected as the featured nonprofit in the 2017 UW Combined Fund Drive. That year, UW faculty, staff and retirees contributed nearly $15,000 to help Special Olympics Washington provide opportunities for athletes to develop physical fitness and display courage and tenacity in the process.
“Special Olympics Washington has a significant impact across Washington State, empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sports, health initiatives, and leadership programs,” says Rebecca Hummer, senior manager of marketing for Special Olympics Washington. “Our community fosters inclusion, dignity, and respect, creating a positive influence that extends beyond sports into the daily lives of our athletes and their families.”
Big changes this year
2024 marks new exciting changes for the Washington chapter, as the organization restructures to meet new demands. Starting in July 2024, Special Olympics Washington is operating on a three-season schedule.
- Winter season, from mid-November to early March, includes alpine skiing, basketball, cheerleading, cross country skiing, figure skating, speed skating, snowboarding and snowshoeing.
- Spring season, from mid-March to mid-June, features athletics, bocce, cycling, golf, softball, soccer and swimming.
- Fall season, from late July to early November, includes bowling, flag football, gymnastics, tennis, pickleball, powerlifting and volleyball.
- Summer recreation season, from mid-June to late July, offers locally organized recreational sports and activities, plus an annual leadership conference.
Off the field, Special Olympics Washington is increasing health equity by partnering with Washington healthcare providers to create the Alliance for Inclusive Health. The initiative will provide training for healthcare providers, health screenings and grow the referral network to better serve and meet the needs of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Truman’s story
“I’m a big supporter of Washington’s Special Olympics,” says Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs. His son, Truman, is a Special Olympics Athlete who won a bronze medal in swimming at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Fla.
The experience inspired Secretary Hobbs to invite nearly 100 athletes, coaches and staff from Special Olympics Washington to watch the Washington State Senate honor their competitive spirit and medal-winning performances at the 2022 Special Olympics by signing Senate Resolution 8625, a bipartisan resolution sponsored by 36 state senators.
“Special Olympics is special to me and my family because the organization believes that everyone deserves a chance at a happy and purposeful life,” says Secretary Hobbs.
How you can help
This summer, with all eyes turned on Paris, we celebrate the promise that sports hold for all of us. There are many ways you can get involved with Special Olympics.
Special Olympics Washington is partnering with local law enforcement for the annual Torch Run, spreading awareness of and raising money for Special Olympics athletes. The relay across the state commenced May 31 and continues through July 25 where it concludes in Redmond. You can participate as an individual runner, as a team or a sponsor.
You can also volunteer your time with Special Olympics Washington. Roles range from event support to coaching and program leadership to health program support. Take the first step by filling out a volunteer interest form.
And you can donate to Special Olympics Washington through:
- The Whole U’s UW Summer Olympics Challenge or
- the UW Combined Fund Drive (Charity Code: 0315427)
The impact of Special Olympics Washington is truly remarkable. The organization has engaged 11,954 athletes in individual and team events.
Consider participating, volunteering or donating to help Special Olympics Washington champion athletic endeavors for all.
“Supporting Special Olympics Washington by volunteering or donating means contributing to a movement that champions individuals’ abilities,” says Hummer. “As we look ahead to the Paris Olympics, our athletes continue to inspire and demonstrate excellence on a global stage. Your support helps sustain this vital work, expanding opportunities and making a lasting difference.”
