For over two decades, Special Olympics Washington supporters have come together to celebrate and make a difference at the annual Tasting Room Auction & Gala.

As our premier fundraising event, the Tasting Room Auction & Gala has raised millions of dollars over the years to provide direct support to thousands of athletes and families. It is also one of the top culinary events of the season, featuring a multi-course dinner curated by the region’s most exceptional chefs and an internationally recognized sommelier. Held on Friday, October 13, the evening included a live and silent auction, raffle, and raise the paddle to help fund programs that are essential to Special Olympics athletes and families.

(Photo/Marshal Hagen)

This year, our Tasting Room event carried a profound theme— “Our Journey Beyond Gold”—as we embark on a mission to go above and beyond our previous accomplishments!

 

The proceeds from this year’s event are earmarked for the following vital programs, all of which are part of our ambitious “Beyond Gold” five-year campaign to expand our programs and reach to athletes across Washington State:

 

  1. Young Athletes: We firmly believe in nurturing young talent and providing inclusive sports opportunities from an early age, and Beyond Gold will make that right a reality for more people with IDD across Washington State.
  2. Sports and Competition: Through our Beyond Gold campaign, we aim to expand our sports programs, enabling more athletes to participate in a wide range of sporting events. We will redesign sports and competition from the ground up to make it easy for communities to own and introduce locally tailored Special Olympics training and events.
  3. Building Bridges: Inclusivity goes beyond sports; it is a way of life. Special Olympics participants are more likely to complete high school, be employed and be recognized for their independence and leadership than peers with IDD who don’t have access to our programs. Through co-designing community programs with Washington’s Tribes and partnering with schools, businesses, and others, we are lifting up the voices, abilities and achievements of people with IDD.

(Photo/Marshal Hagen)

We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported the 2023 Tasting Room and helped us raise more than $600,000 for Special Olympics Washington programs! You’ve become an integral part of our mission to empower individuals with IDD, offering them the opportunities they deserve to shine and thrive. We couldn’t do it without you!