United Airlines Expands Special Olympics Athlete Ambassador Program to New Hubs
United Airlines Expands Special Olympics Service Ambassador Program
United Airlines recently announced the expansion of its innovative Special Olympics Service Ambassador (SOSA) program, which is the first of its kind in the airline industry. This initiative will now include new centers in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Newark, aiming to bring a total of 28 ambassadors on board across all seven U.S. hubs. The company’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its mission to create more employment opportunities for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.
The Role of SOSA Ambassadors
The main responsibilities of the ambassadors include welcoming customers in the airport lobby, assisting with check-in kiosks, guiding them to bag check locations, and helping passengers navigate through security lines. After passing through security, SOSAs continue to assist travelers by providing information on navigating terminals and utilizing digital customer service tools. This friendly assistance brings warmth to the travel experience, enhancing customer satisfaction and adding a layer of support for United's regular staff.
Notable NFL hall-of-famer Jerry Rice attended the announcement event at the San Francisco hub, where he helped recruit new candidates and participated in training sessions with current SOSAs. "Being part of a program like this is a great honor, as it showcases how inclusivity can elevate a team's success," he remarked, underscoring the dedication and skills exhibited by the SOSAs.
Impact on Employment and Community
United's SOSA program is pivotal in giving Special Olympics athletes valuable work experience alongside part-time employment benefits. The ongoing initiative allows these athletes to not only hone their teamwork and communication skills but also directly touch the lives of travelers by making their journeys smoother and more enjoyable.
Lauren Miller, a current United SOSA working in Chicago, expressed her pride in representing the program. “Sharing my experiences and skills is incredibly fulfilling, and I'm thrilled that more athletes will have the chance to impact passengers positively,” she noted.
A Longstanding Relationship with Special Olympics
This expansion is part of United’s long-standing partnership with Special Olympics. The airline's relationship has flourished through various sponsorships and event activations, such as supporting Capitol Hill Day in Washington D.C. where athletes advocate for inclusive education and health initiatives. Involving more than 275 participants from various programs across the country, this event highlights the critical efforts for inclusion in society.
Moreover, United’s Chief Operations Officer, Toby Enqvist, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for Special Olympics International, reinforcing the airline's commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities globally.
Accessibility Initiatives
The SOSA program is a part of United's broader initiative to promote accessibility for all travelers. This includes practical measures like implementing the industry's first digital sizing tool for wheelchairs and offering Braille on aircraft interiors. The airline has made substantial enhancements to its mobile app to assist visually impaired passengers, reflecting a genuine effort to improve the travel experience for all.
United has consistently been recognized as a top company for disability inclusion, emphasizing its commitment to creating welcoming environments for everyone.
Conclusion
As the Special Olympics Service Ambassador program continues to grow, United Airlines shines as a beacon of change within the airline industry. This initiative not only enriches the lives of its participants but also positively contributes to changing perceptions about the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities. United Airlines is paving the way for a more inclusive future, ensuring everyone has a place in the skies.