To our supportive community –
More than 64,000 Californians with intellectual disabilities (ID) are at risk of losing essential health, wellness, and educational programming provided by Special Olympics California.
For the first time since 2016, Special Olympics California was omitted from the California State Budget—but it is not too late to change that. While the California legislature and Governor Newsom likely never intended to cut Special Olympics from the budget, our community now faces additional COVID-19 challenges.
Californians with intellectual disabilities need Special Olympics now more than ever. Throughout the global pandemic, Special Olympics California continues to support our vulnerable population through inclusive virtual sports, health, fitness, social, and education programs. Special Olympics California needs ongoing State of California funding in 2021 to deliver these critical programs and services to our ID Community.
Will California’s budget reflect your values?
We believe Californians deeply care about and value people with ID. Special Olympics California is ready to continue our legacy of service.
During the week of August 24, 2020, our legislatures will convene to discuss revisions to the 2020-2021 State Budget. It is critical that you ask Governor Newsom and your elected representatives to include Special Olympics California in the State of California Budget.
Please Sign our Petition (www.californiaspecialolympics.org), call Governor Newsom at 916-445-2841, and share your voice using #FundSpecialOlympics.
Sincerely,
David Solo, President & CEO of Special Olympics Northern California
Bill Shumard, President & CEO of Special Olympics Southern California
Dustin Plunkett, Special Olympics California Athlete & Ambassador