Yes, this year was full of unforgettable moments:

• cheering athletes onto the field at Cheney Stadium,
• honoring Tribal culture through our first Inclusive Indigenous Games Showcase,
• raising our flag above the Seattle skyline,
• and coming together at the Gold Gala to invest in a future powered by inclusion.

But the heart of Special Olympics Washington isn’t found in the big moments alone. It lives in the everyday courage of our athletes, the commitment of our families and volunteers, and the people like you who believe in a more inclusive world — not as a slogan, but as a responsibility.

As we turn toward the next 50 years, our work is clear:

✔ expand access so more individuals with ID/DD can participate
✔ strengthen community connections statewide
✔ grow leadership opportunities so athletes don’t just participate — they lead
✔ and continue building a movement rooted in dignity, belonging, and joy

And we’re not slowing down.

Up Next: 2026 Polar Plunge Season

We’re kicking off the new year with one of our most joyful traditions — Polar Plunge Washington — now bigger than ever with a 5K Fun Run, Plunge & Run combo, and our new 24-hour Super Plunge challenge. Every splash fuels programs, health services, leadership pathways, and year-round opportunities for athletes across Washington.

Find your Plunge city and register at polarplungewa.com.

To our athletes, families, volunteers, partners, donors, and champions — thank you. Thank you for showing up. Thank you for believing. Thank you for helping us build a Washington where inclusion isn’t an aspiration; it’s a way of life.

The last 50 years built the foundation.
The next 50 will define the future.
And we’re just getting started.

Are you in?

Warm regards,

Mary Do
President & CEO
Special Olympics Washington