Special Olympics and UPS have announced the extension of their collaboration to the end of 2026, continuing their collaborative efforts to promote inclusion and empowerment for people with intellectual disabilities.
This renewed alliance builds upon a successful partnership that began in 2021 and includes a USD 310,000 grant to support Special Olympics inclusive programming across Europe Eurasia, Asia Pacific, East Asia, Africa and Latin America. In 2024, the partnership has directly impacted 23 countries in the Europe Eurasia and APAC regions with national programming as well as regional events, positively contributing to improving the lives of 9,764 Special Olympics Athletes by providing opportunities for competition and inclusion. UPS and Special Olympics plan to positively impact more than 4,600 Special Olympics Athletes in 2025 and close to 6,000 in 2026.
UPS, a global package delivery company and leading provider of global supply chain management solutions, will continue to fund initiatives between 1 January and 31 December 2026 aimed at enhancing the lives of athletes, coaches, and families through inclusive sports and community engagement.
UPS employees, known as UPSers, will play an active role in supporting these initiatives, demonstrating the company's commitment to social responsibility and inclusion. In 2024, UPSers volunteered more than 15,000 hours to support Special Olympics across more than 20 countries globally.
David Evangelista, Special Olympics Europe Eurasia President & Managing Director, and incoming Special Olympics International CEO, said:
"This extended partnership with UPS represents a shared vision of building inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. With UPS’s commitment, we are able to expand our reach, ensuring that more people with intellectual disabilities can participate in sports, develop leadership and life skills, and experience a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the playing field.”
“Partnerships like this are critical in breaking down barriers and creating a world where inclusion is the norm, not the exception. We would like to thank the global UPS family for their unwavering support."
Nicole Clifton, UPS President of Social Impact and The UPS Foundation, added:
“At UPS, we don’t just give — we connect people to possibility. Our continued partnership with Special Olympics helps athletes gain the skills and confidence to shine on and off the field. With every act of service, we deliver more than goods — we cultivate dignity, hope, and opportunity.”
