Countdown to 2026 Special Olympics USA Games Marked by Major BofA Grant and Partnership

Countdown to 2026 Special Olympics USA Games



In a momentous collaboration, Special Olympics International has joined forces with Bank of America (BofA) to announce a transformative $5 million grant aimed at empowering athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This initiative marks a crucial step in enhancing programs that provide leadership opportunities, competitive employment support, and the realization of goals for these athletes.

The grant, set to span three years, will bolster Special Olympics' Athlete Leadership and Unified Leadership programs at various levels—local, regional, national, and global. A significant aspect of this initiative is the expansion of programs worldwide, particularly targeting regions in Asia Pacific, Africa, and Latin America, thereby broadening the reach and impact of Special Olympics.

Empowering Athletes Through Leadership Training



A key focus of the funding will be on the growth of workforce readiness trainings and innovative programming designed by and for individuals with IDD. This includes the Unified Leadership Training, which aims to cultivate inclusive mindsets that pave the way for more accepting workplaces. To date, more than 2,000 businesses, schools, and community organizations have benefited from this training, showcasing the widespread need and impact of these programs.

Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "Bank of America's support comes at a crucial time as we work to expand equitable access to leadership opportunities for Special Olympics athletes. They recognize that these athletes are some of the most powerful voices for inclusion. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring that individuals with intellectual disabilities are included in all conversations and have platforms to lead."

Partnership Highlights for the 2026 USA Games



Adding to this exciting news, Bank of America is set to become a Platinum Partner for the upcoming 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, scheduled from June 20-26 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As part of their commitment, BofA will sponsor the golf event at the USA Games, where over 159 athletes and 40 caddies will compete.

This sponsorship not only supports the athletes but also reflects BofA's ongoing initiative, 'Golf with Us', aimed at introducing more individuals to the game of golf across the nation. Additionally, Bank of America will mobilize around 10,000 employee volunteer hours every year to foster engagement and support for the disability community, particularly during the USA Games.

Charlotte Miller, a participant from Special Olympics Indiana, expressed her enthusiasm about the opportunities the Athlete Leadership Program has provided her, including skills in photography and public speaking. "I’ve been an instructor for over a year, and the training has helped many athletes learn how to save and manage money effectively. I'm excited to participate in my first USA Games and meet inspiring individuals from all over the country!" she shared.

Long-standing Commitment to Inclusion



Bank of America's partnership with Special Olympics is grounded in a shared commitment to inclusion and community betterment. Their extensive involvement ranges from philanthropic contributions to workforce development initiatives and employee engagement opportunities, signifying a robust effort towards nurturing an inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of visible or non-visible disabilities.

AJ Barkley, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Bank of America, highlighted the role of sports in fostering unity and inclusion over the last five decades. "Our ongoing philanthropic investment and sponsorship of the USA Games reflects our commitment to empower individuals and realize their potential within our global communities."

BofA's Support Services team proudly includes over 300 employees with IDD and continues efforts to connect employees through professional development and community involvement. Through partnerships with Special Olympics and the National Disability Institute, they’ve also developed educational resources aimed at helping people with intellectual disabilities achieve financial independence.

Founded in 1968, Special Olympics has grown into a global movement dedicated to eradicating discrimination against individuals with intellectual disabilities. Boasting over four million athletes across 200 countries, Special Olympics is committed to leveraging the power of sports to foster acceptance and dignity for all.

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games promise to be a landmark event—a celebration of accomplishment, inclusivity, and the indomitable human spirit—drawing thousands to witness over 3,000 athletes from all 50 states compete in approximately 16 sports disciplines. With Minnesota's rich history of promoting diversity and inclusion, the USA Games offer an unparalleled opportunity to ignite passion for the Special Olympics movement.

For more information about the event, visit 2026specialolympicsusagames.org.

Topics Sports)

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