Community Advocacy

Our inclusive allies in sports, government, entertainment, business and other areas dedicate their time and resources to support Special Olympics.

Inclusion Ambassadors

Inclusion Ambassadors are public figures in sports, entertainment, fitness and news who help raise awareness for Special Olympics Northern California. Inclusion Ambassadors have the opportunity to change
lives – both by spotlighting the abilities and gifts of people with intellectual disabilities, and by setting an example of inclusivity for everyone to follow.

As icons of success from diverse industries, Inclusion Ambassadors generously lend their name, time and resources to bring a heightened awareness to the mission. Learn more about becoming an Inclusion Ambassador by emailing marketing@sonc.org.

Inclusion Ambassador Spotlight

JT MARCINKOWSKI

Goalkeeper, San Jose Earthquakes

Born and raised in the Bay Area, JT is now the goalkeeper for the San Jose Earthquakes of MLS. JT has been a supporter of Special Olympics Northern California for four years, volunteering his time at special events, cheering on athletes at competitions, and welcoming athletes on the field at the Earthquakes home stadium. JT became a board member for Special Olympics Northern California in 2023.

Champions in Government

Special Olympics is a bipartisan nonprofit organization and we are grateful to receive support from national, state, county and local government offices. For more information and to get your local office involved, please contact governmentrelations@sonc.org.

Federal Funding

Special Olympics receives federal funding for programs in schools and health throughout the country. In NorCal, this funding helps to elevate our Schools Partnership Program and Health & Wellness Program. Every year, athlete ambassadors from every state travel to Washington D.C. to meet with legislators and demonstrate the impact of these programs.

State of California Support

Special Olympics Northern California and Special Olympics Southern California were awarded multi-year funding in the State’s 2022–2023 budget.

Led by Governor Gavin Newsom and State Assemblymembers Anthony Rendon and Tim Grayson, this funding gives our program the resources it needs to expand our reach and attract new participants. Our Athlete Leaders meet with legislators at the State Capitol every year to thank them, share the impacts of Special Olympics, and form meaningful bonds.

County & Local Impacts

While Special Olympics is a global organization, our real impacts are felt in local communities. We are proud to receive support from numerous counties, cities and community organizations that help empower children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Santa Clara County, led by Board of Supervisor Susan Ellenberg, continues to show its dedication with seven years of funding of our programming. We’re proud to have hosted the last two Summer Games in Santa Clara County thanks to the local support!

Young Professionals Advisory Committee

The Young Professionals Advisory Committee (YPAC) is an inclusive group of young professionals and emerging leaders, with and without disabilities, who work together to advocate for Special Olympics Northern California in our local communities.

Apply to join YPAC or learn more by contacting ypac-sonc-contact-us@googlegroups.com