Special Olympics Florida

No bogeys here! It was a hole-in-one sort of day for Orange County athlete Danny Steele, who enjoyed private lessons from PGA TOUR pro Wyndham Clark ahead of the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard at Bay Hill Golf Club. Wyndham’s passion for the sport is truly inspiring, and the impact he’s made extends beyond the game. We’re also so grateful to our friends at Orlando Health – our Official Healthcare Partner of Healthy Athletes and Young Athletes Programs in Central Florida – for bringing everyone together for an unforgettable day on the links. Their support continues to change lives and create opportunities that empower athletes to reach their full potential.

What a night! A huge thank you to the Florida Panthers for hosting Special Olympics Florida at their game against the Edmonton Oilers. Athletes, parents, and coaches enjoyed a thrilling Stanley Cup rematch – and the energy, excitement, and electric atmosphere made for an unforgettable experience. Athletes also had the privilege of meeting Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky after the game. Moments like these remind us of the power of sports to bring people together, create memories, and celebrate inclusion. We’re so grateful for the Panthers’ continued support of our athletes and our mission!

What a fantastic weekend celebrating some incredible champions who truly embody the spirit of Special Olympics Florida, and who foster the principles of inclusion and acceptance. Join us in congratulating our Hall of Fame Class of 2024.?? Thank you for your tremendous contributions to our mission, to the greater community, and to people with intellectual disabilities everywhere.?? ? ·??????Clayton Gage, athlete (Brevard County) ·??????Chris Nikic, athlete (Seminole County) ·??????Marlynne Stutzman, athlete (Pasco County) ·??????Ron Fulop, volunteer and supporter (Palm Beach County) ·??????Dr. Hope Jacobson, coach and supporter (Miami-Dade County) ·??????Paul Sallarulo, volunteer and supporter (Broward County)

Save the date and join us for Savor the Bay – Tampa’s ultimate night of flavor, fun, and giving back! Savor bites from top local restaurants, sip custom-crafted cocktails, enjoy live entertainment, and try your luck at blackjack — all in support of Special Olympics Florida athletes. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of networking and good times for a great cause. Presented by our friends at Raymond James and Coca-Cola Beverages Florida. (For ages 21 and older.) Friday, April 11 | 6 p.m. East Club at Raymond James Stadium Get your tickets at https://lnkd.in/eXnXDVs9

A huge thank you to the New York Mets for welcoming Special Olympics athletes to spring training in St. Lucie and giving them an unforgettable experience.?From taking swings in the batting cages to fielding grounders with the pros, these athletes showcased their passion, determination, and love for the game. Moments like these showcase the true power of sports—to inspire, unite, and create opportunities for all. Seeing our athletes’ joy on the field was a reminder that baseball is for everyone. We appreciate the Mets organization and our friends at Amazin' Mets Foundation for fostering an inclusive community and for making these athletes feel like part of the team. Thank you for making a difference! ???

With 14 Miami-Dade middle- and high-school students in attendance, 215 participants attended our recent Youth Summit. Thanks to our partnership with Bank of America, our schools were part of the impactful "Better Money Habits" course. The event featured several breakout sessions, games, and speakers. Special thanks to ESPN reporter Marcel Louis-Jacques for being part of this event and introducing Southwest Miami Senior High School – recently named an ESPN Banner School.

This week, our incredible athletes are taking their leadership off the field and into the halls of government – meeting with lawmakers as part of Special Olympics Capitol Hill Day. Athlete Leaders David Helseth (Indian River County) and Sara Parker (Pasco County) are advocating for essential education and health programming that support people with intellectual disabilities. Through their powerful stories and unwavering determination, they are championing for inclusive policies and greater opportunities for all.?While on the Hill, David and Sara had the incredible opportunity to meet with Special Olympics Chairman, Timothy Shriver, and had impactful conversations at the offices of Rep. Aaron Bean and Rep. John H. Rutherford. Join us in supporting their mission by amplifying their voices – because when we invest in inclusion, we create stronger communities for everyone! #SOCapitolHillDay #CapitolHill #advocacy #specialolympics #choosetoinclude

In honor of Black History Month, we asked athletes around the state to tell us about someone who is an inspiration to them.?Escambia County Athlete Leader and Special Olympics Florida Hall of Fame Member Stacy Barnes is thrilled to highlight Regina Williams – her mentor and bowling coach. "I’ve known Regina for about 10 years, and she always has my back – at competitions and in life," Stacy says. "I respect her because she’s honest, she encourages me to be confident, and tells me, 'Do not ever dim your light'. I’d like the world to know that Regina is kind, down to earth, and respects her athletes. She’s 100% queen!" We are grateful for heroes like Regina who uplift, support, and drive change in our communities—not just this month, but every day.

He dreamed of equality and inclusion. He championed for injustice. He believed in the power of love, community and courage to break down barriers. Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision continues to be an inspiration for our mission. Through sports, we unite people of all abilities, proving that inclusion isn’t just an ideal—it’s a transformative force for change. As we honor Dr. King’s legacy, we invite you to join us in advancing inclusion, fighting injustice, and creating a world where everyone belongs. Together, we can continue to build a brighter, more inclusive future.

For the last week, athletes across the state have been having a fantastic time at Publix Super Markets –?helping to bag groceries alongside Publix associates, meeting thousands of customers, sharing their stories, showing off their medals, and feeling the incredible support from everyone as part of our Torch Icon Campaign. As we approach the final weekend, there's still time to make a difference! When you visit Publix through Sunday, Jan. 19, simply donate at any register, and get your torch with more than $24 in great Procter & Gamble coupons. Your generosity will empower children and adults with intellectual disabilities to thrive in sports, build friendships, stay healthy, and participate in unique leadership programs. So help us Light the Torch...because together, we can create a world where everyone belongs.??