by Michelle Mayer | Apr 21, 2026 | State Tournaments, Statewide, Volunteers
For Tricia Brawley, volunteering with Special Olympics Illinois wasn’t just a one-time experience; it became a lifelong connection built on community, trust, and saying “yes” to new opportunities.
Tricia’s journey began in high school, thanks to a school counselor who encouraged her to become a student aide in a special education classroom. Her school was launching a new life skills program, and from the moment she stepped into the classroom, Tricia knew she had found something special.
“I was placed with an incredible teacher, and it was an experience that immediately impacted me,” Tricia shared. “I quickly formed strong connections with the students. They became my friends.”
Those early days were filled with meaningful moments like participating in the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign, volunteering with a floor hockey team, and even attending Chicago Blackhawks games alongside the athletes. But what left the biggest impression wasn’t just the activities, it was the sense of belonging.
“From the very beginning, I felt like I was learning just as much from these students as I was supporting them,” she said. “The community was so welcoming, and I instantly wanted to continue being part of it.”
That spark followed Tricia beyond high school. Inspired by her experience as a peer volunteer, she pursued a degree in Special Education at Illinois State University. During her freshman year, another opportunity came full circle when a high school teacher, who was also a Special Olympics Illinois coach, helped connect her with Special Olympics Illinois as a student employee.
As a student employee, Tricia got a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring events to life.
“I had the opportunity to not only learn what goes into running events, but to actively be part of them,” she said. From regional competitions to state events and fundraisers, Tricia found herself organizing, supporting, and helping make events successful.
One event in particular became a turning point: the powerlifting competition at Summer Games.
“I spent a lot of time there,” Tricia said. “Through that, I got to know Dan Conley, who ran the regions near where I lived. I was so eager to continue volunteering, and I was incredibly lucky that Dan welcomed me into his group of key volunteers.”
That moment marked the beginning of Tricia’s expansion into long-term leadership with Special Olympics Illinois across Regions B and C and at the state level.
Over the years, Tricia’s roles have grown, but her reason for staying involved has always stayed the same.
“Without a doubt, it’s the people,” she said. “Being at Special Olympics events fills my cup in a way nothing else does.”
For Tricia, events aren’t just events; they’re reunions. She reconnects with friends from high school who are now competing, sees former students and their families, and works alongside dedicated volunteers, law enforcement, and staff who all share the same mission.
Eventually, Tricia became a key volunteer, primarily announcing awards across multiple sports, a role she truly loves.
“My time as a student employee opened the door to leadership opportunities, like running and announcing awards,” she shared. “Those weren’t roles I would have sought out on my own.”
She credits the encouragement and trust of Special Olympics Illinois staff, especially her supervisor, Verlinda, for helping her step into those responsibilities.
“I still remember being told by Verlinda that it was my responsibility to take on those roles,” Tricia said. “I’m so grateful she pushed me, because it led me to something I now absolutely love.”
“Getting to celebrate athletes and recognize their hard work is incredibly meaningful,” she continues. “Watching athletes support and cheer each other on is one of my favorite parts of every event.”
That trust, and the support that came with it, has shaped how Tricia continues to say “yes” to new opportunities and lead with confidence within the Special Olympics Illinois community.
“When Special Olympics Illinois asks you to step into something new, it’s because they believe in you,” she said. “There’s always support, and every role leaves you feeling proud, fulfilled, and grateful.”
As a volunteer leader, Tricia sees firsthand the impact volunteers have on athletes, families, and the broader community.
“Volunteers are absolutely essential to what makes Special Olympics Illinois so special,” she said. “These events simply wouldn’t run without them.”
But beyond logistics, volunteering builds relationships that last for years.
“I get to celebrate milestones with athletes and families year after year and stay connected to their journeys,” she said. “Volunteering creates a strong sense of community. It builds friendships with athletes, families, volunteers, and staff.”
During National Volunteer Month, Tricia’s message to anyone considering getting involved is clear…
“Do it! Do it! Do it!” she said. “Special Olympics Illinois has made my life so much fuller.”
With countless events, roles, and opportunities, Tricia believes there truly is a place for everyone.
“I’d love to say volunteering is just about giving back,” she said, “but the reality is, Special Olympics Illinois has given so much more to me than I could ever put into words.”
Her advice?
“Come check out an event. Cheer on the athletes. Experience it for yourself,” Tricia said. “You’ll make a difference in your community and in your own life, too.”
Learn more about how to find your place as a volunteer with Special Olympics Illinois.
by lauryn | Apr 8, 2026 | Mission Focused, Region C, Volunteers
In honor of National Volunteer Month this April, Special Olympics Illinois is proud to spotlight two remarkable Region C Key Volunteers, Sergio and Noemi Munoz, whose dedication has made a lasting impact over the past 15 years.
The Munozes recall their first day volunteering at an event hosted at North Central College in Naperville. “A coworker invited us to help, and we saw it as a meaningful way to give back to the community,” says Sergio. What started as a single day quickly turned into a long-standing commitment that continues to grow.
From the beginning, they have been active members of the Power Team. “We help set up venues, organize logistics, distribute lunches, assist athletes and families, and help with event breakdown,” the Munozes explain. Over time, they took on leadership roles alongside fellow Key Volunteer Candace, guiding and coordinating the team’s efforts across competitions.
Reflecting on the experience, the Munozes reflect, “It’s really the people who have left the greatest impression. We’ve built lasting connections with families, athletes, and fellow volunteers, and we’ve been inspired by the passion and commitment of everyone involved.” One particularly meaningful moment for them has been participating in the lighting of the cauldron, which they describe as “a powerful symbol of unity and celebration at Special Olympics events.”
Asked what motivates them to continue volunteering year after year, they answer simply: “The athletes. Their joy, determination, and strength are incredible. Being part of an organization that creates these experiences fills us with pride.”
Inclusion is central to their work. “Inclusion means creating opportunities for everyone to participate, belong, and succeed while celebrating differences and recognizing individual strengths,” Noemi says. Sergio adds, “It’s about ensuring all individuals, regardless of background or ability, have the chance to participate, achieve, and feel a sense of accomplishment.”
The Munozes also note the personal impact of their volunteerism. “Through our work with Special Olympics Illinois, we’ve grown closer together, strengthened our compassion, and added joy to our lives,” they say.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, the Munozes’ story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact volunteers can have, not only on the athletes and communities they serve but also on their own lives.
Thanks to Sergio, Noemi, and ALL volunteers who move our mission forward! Learn more and become a volunteer.
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Siendo la Diferencia: El legado de voluntariado de los Muñoz
En honor al Mes Nacional del Voluntariado este abril, Special Olympics Illinois se enorgullece en destacar a dos voluntarios clave excepcionales de la Región C, Sergio y Noemí Muñoz, cuya dedicación ha dejado un impacto duradero durante los últimos 15 años.
Los Muñoz recuerdan su primer día como voluntarios en un evento realizado en North Central College en Naperville. “Un compañero de trabajo nos invitó a ayudar, y lo vimos como una manera significativa de retribuir a la comunidad”, comenta Sergio. Lo que comenzó como un solo día se convirtió rápidamente en un compromiso a largo plazo que continúa creciendo.
Desde el inicio, han sido miembros activos del Power Team. “Ayudamos a preparar los espacios, organizar la logística, distribuir almuerzos, asistir a los atletas y sus familias, y colaborar con el desmontaje de los eventos”, explican los Muñoz. Con el tiempo, asumieron roles de liderazgo junto a la también voluntaria clave Candace, guiando y coordinando los esfuerzos del equipo en diversas competencias.
Al reflexionar sobre su experiencia, los Muñoz comparten: “Son realmente las personas quienes han dejado la mayor huella en nosotros. Hemos construido relaciones duraderas con familias, atletas y otros voluntarios, y nos ha inspirado la pasión y el compromiso de todos los involucrados.” Un momento especialmente significativo para ellos ha sido participar en el encendido del pebetero, que describen como “un poderoso símbolo de unidad y celebración en los eventos de Special Olympics.”
Cuando se les pregunta qué los motiva a seguir siendo voluntarios año tras año, responden con sencillez: “Los atletas. Su alegría, determinación y fortaleza son increíbles. Ser parte de una organización que crea estas experiencias nos llena de orgullo.”
La inclusión es fundamental en su labor. “La inclusión significa crear oportunidades para que todos puedan participar, pertenecer y tener éxito, celebrando las diferencias y reconociendo las fortalezas individuales”, dice Noemí. Sergio añade: “Se trata de asegurar que todas las personas, sin importar su origen o habilidades, tengan la oportunidad de participar, lograr metas y sentirse realizadas.”
Los Muñoz también destacan el impacto personal de su voluntariado. “A través de nuestro trabajo con Special Olympics Illinois, nos hemos acercado más como pareja, hemos fortalecido nuestra compasión y hemos añadido alegría a nuestras vidas”, señalan.
Al celebrar el Mes Nacional del Voluntariado, la historia de los Muñoz es un poderoso recordatorio del impacto que los voluntarios pueden tener, no solo en los atletas y las comunidades a las que sirven, sino también en sus propias vidas.
¡Gracias a Sergio, Noemí y a TODOS los voluntarios que impulsan nuestra misión! Aprende más y conviértete en voluntario.
by lauryn | Mar 19, 2026 | Athletes, Mission Focused, Organizational Impact, Region D, Region H, Sports, State Tournaments, UCS/Unified, Volunteers
By Randy Kindred and Lily Goodfellow
Tom White won more than 400 games in 26 seasons as Chicago De La Salle Institute’s boys head basketball coach. There were a lot of highs in a career that earned him induction into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Yet, White will tell you there were some “hard years” in which “people are transferring on you and there are things you don’t see.”
White coaches the game in a different environment these days, and it’s given him something new, special. His De La Salle/Southside team fell a bit short in its quest for a fourth straight IHSA Unified State Basketball Division 2 championship, but that was OK. White and his players had a third-place trophy Saturday and, more importantly, each other.
“In some of my years as a boys varsity coach … I don’t know if I was told too much that they loved me,” White said. “In this, they tell you they love you. They want to hug you. I think it’s a human need a little bit. It’s good to be appreciated like that instead of criticized.”
The weekend also featured the Special Olympics Illinois State Basketball Tournament in Bloomington-Normal. Among those at Illinois State’s Horton Field House was Mitzi Vasconcelles, a retired Springfield police officer who has volunteered at Special Olympics Illinois events for decades.
On the Court With Southside Unified
Southside defeated East St. Louis, 67-46, in the third-place game at the University of Illinois’ Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) in Champaign. That came after a 49-40 semifinal loss to Bradley Bourbonnais the previous day. Bradley Bourbonnais took second place Saturday behind champion Chicago Vaughn Occupational High School & St. Patrick High School.
This was White’s fourth year coaching Southside Unified, and while another state title was not to be, “It’s pretty darn good to be here,” he said.
“You get your school, the non-special needs kids, and every year you get different kids,” White said. “This year, our soccer team was state champs. Most of these kids who are De La Salle students (on Southside Unified) are soccer players. It makes a difference.
“It (Unified) is a cool thing. I think it’s something that high school kids need in order to appreciate who they are, what they are.”
Brandon Dorsey was part of Southside’s three-year championship run. An athlete with Special Olympics Illinois, he was a player for two years and a student assistant coach for one.
Dorsey and White were featured in an inspirational video at last year’s Special Olympics Illinois Champions Ball. Dorsey now attends Richard Daley Community College in Chicago and has a job at Jewel-Osco, but his impact on the team is still being felt, White said.
“He was just the nicest kid, played hard,” said White, who is in his 31st year as De La Salle’s athletic director. “He’s like my kid a little bit. He would be the glue behind the team. He just said the right things. His disabilities were not anything of what his heart was and his head was. He saw things and understood things.
“Awesome kid, and he still has remnants in this program. He would say NWG .. Now We Go! Then everybody would start dancing and stuff.”
Dorsey said he joined a teammate to create “hype” for Southside through music.
“My teammate is a rapper and I am a music producer, so we’d create a rap song to get the team hyped up before our game started,” he said.
Dorsey believes he is still reaping the benefits of being with Southside Unified.
“Now that I’m in college, I feel like I carry that with me,” he said. “It’s for like, ‘work as a team, do your part.’ I deal with that with work and with school, so whatever I’m doing that does not involve basketball, I feel like I’m still in it because you’re working as a group.”
Learn more and view results from the 2026 IHSA Unified State Basketball Tournament.
The Heart Behind the Medals
Vasconcelles is a Region H volunteer who got involved in Special Olympics Illinois long before she retired from the Springfield Police Department in 2002.
Her first event was the Spring Games in Springfield and she was one of only five volunteers, something she said “is unheard of today.”
Vasconcelles was among those handing out awards and medals at the State Basketball Tournament. At the Summer Games tournament, she works on the track.
She said she enjoys both roles, as well as regional and local events. Earlier this month, she volunteered at the Springfield area’s Polar Plunge, which raised more than $130,000 for Special Olympics Illinois. Asked if she participates in the Polar Plunge, she said, “I do not. As I tell people, I am the last sane person they see before they go in the water.”
Among her favorite aspects of volunteering is seeing the joy of the athletes when they receive their medals.
“Oh, they’re so exuberant. They’re so proud of themselves,” Vasconcelles said. “It’s been a long weekend for some, you know. And this is the culmination of all their hard work. That’s what’s special. And what’s really fun is no matter how they place, they’re excited.
“I mean, I like to say it’s true athletic competition. Everybody is pulling for everybody. And if you watch the games, if somebody falls down, somebody’s there to help them up. I mean, it’s wonderful.”
Vasconcelles said she has come to know numerous coaches and families as a Special Olympics Illinois volunteer, including many from Chatham. She has a treasure trove of fond memories as a volunteer, too many to choose a favorite, she said.
Asked for a word to describe herself, she replied, “Humble, I guess. Humble to be around all these wonderful athletes.”
Learn more and view results from the 2026 State Basketball Tournament.
by lauryn | Dec 9, 2025 | Healthy Athletes, Mission Focused, Region D, Uncategorized, Volunteers
For more than three decades, Dr. Ricardo Y. Mendoza, DDS, MS, FICD has been a driving force behind Special Olympics health programming. His journey began at Boston University, where he trained under Dr. Steve Perlman, founder of Special Smiles. “I had an amazing mentor, Dr. Steve Perlman, who happened to be the founder of Special Smiles,” Dr. Mendoza recalls. “Secondly, I have family members with special needs back in Venezuela, so I totally understood the challenges this population has. Easily, the passion towards helping this population grew inside of me.”
That passion has carried him through 30 years of service, where he’s seen how health programming changes lives. “The Special Smiles program is a fun event where athletes are competing, getting awards for their efforts, and receiving dental exams in a fun environment,” he explains. “With puppets, stickers, big models, and volunteers showing tender care, it gets easy for athletes to understand the importance of improving their oral health. And we get the caretakers and chaperones involved too.”
The impact of Special Smiles goes far beyond education. Dr. Mendoza recalls one powerful moment with an athlete whose family had just arrived from Mexico. “The parents didn’t know about any resources on how to even go about the care for this child, and we found social workers to help out,” he shares. Stories like this highlight how health programming connects families to critical support they might not otherwise find.
Over the years, Dr. Mendoza has seen many smiles restored through urgent care. “On occasions when we identify urgent dental needs and we are able to channel this through grants to cover the entire oral rehabilitation … that kind of capability is without any doubt one of the many reasons I am so proud of our program.” These interventions not only improve health but also transform lives.
Families, he emphasizes, are central to this work. “It’s very important to understand that we can help these individuals, that there are resources and dental tools available.” By equipping caregivers with knowledge and tools, Special Smiles ensures athletes have lasting support at home as well as on the field.
At the heart of it all is inclusion. “Inclusion means everything,” Dr. Mendoza says. “All individuals are to be treated equally and opportunities have to be equitable in our society. Special Olympics Illinois is a perfect example of how inclusion within our beautiful diversity of individuals can work in harmony.”
Dr. Mendoza’s story is a reminder of the incredible impact of our health programming. From screenings that restore confidence to Healthy Habits stations that empower athletes with lifelong skills, Special Olympics Illinois health initiatives are more than care, they’re a celebration of dignity, inclusion, and the joy of a healthy life. Thank you to Dr. Mendoza and all volunteers who make a difference!
Learn more about Special Olympics Illinois’ health programming.
by Michelle Mayer | Sep 8, 2025 | Champions Ball, Fundraising, Statewide, Volunteers
Special Olympics Illinois is thrilled to announce the co-chairs for the 2025 Champions Ball, our premier annual gala dedicated to celebrating and fundraising for athletes with intellectual disabilities across the state. This year’s event will be led by two dynamic leaders: Sarah Glavin, Head of Community Affairs at Amazon, and Toby Enqvist, Global Chief Operations Officer at United Airlines.
Set to take place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at The Geraghty in Chicago, the Champions Ball will bring together supporters, business leaders, community partners, and athletes for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, dining, live and silent auctions, and powerful stories from our athletes and families.
Last year’s event raised nearly one million dollars in a single night, and we’re aiming even higher in 2025.
Who They Are and Why They Lead
Sarah Glavin leads Amazon’s community and civic partnerships across the Midwest. Special Olympics Illinois has partnered with Amazon to propel unified initiatives in Illinois for more than four years.
“Amazon began partnering with Special Olympics Illinois in 2021, engaging directly with athletes and families to understand their vision for inclusive classrooms and workplaces,” said Glavin. “Their leadership is transforming our schools and work environments, creating more collaborative, inclusive, and productive communities. This impact drives our continued investment in Special Olympics Illinois’ mission to develop opportunities for every individual.”
Prior to joining Amazon, Glavin spent a decade at United Airlines as Director of Global Community Engagement. Her career spans roles in political campaigns, nonprofit leadership, and corporate affairs, including work with the American Cancer Society, Ariel Investments, and Senator Richard J. Durbin’s campaign staff.
Glavin is a 2025 Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow and serves on the boards of the National Museum of Mexican Art, How Women Lead Chicago, and the Chicago Corporate Coalition.
Toby Enqvist oversees global operations at United Airlines, including safety, airport and flight operations, inflight services, and customer solutions. United Airlines has partnered with Special Olympics Illinois on championing inclusion on and off the field for more than 10 years.
“At United, we believe in connecting people not only through travel, but through opportunity and inclusion,” says Enqvist. “From hosting plane pull fundraisers at our hubs to employing Special Olympic Service Ambassadors in our terminals, United has a long-standing partnership with Special Olympics Illinois. I’m honored to serve as co-chair of this year’s Champions Ball as we continue working together to break down barriers and uplift every individual’s potential.”
With over 25 years in the airline industry, Enqvist began his career at Continental Airlines in 1996 and has held leadership roles in both operations and finance. He previously served as United’s EVP and Chief Customer Officer, where he championed innovations to enhance the passenger experience.
Originally from Stockholm, Sweden, Toby earned his undergraduate degree from Ouachita Baptist University and an MBA from Southern Methodist University.
He serves on the Northwestern University Business Advisory Council and lives in the U.S. with his wife and daughter.
Driving Our Misson Forward
Special Olympics Illinois is committed to building a more inclusive world alongside people with intellectual disabilities. Through year-round programming, Special Olympics Illinois is creating opportunities for growth, personal development, and connection through sports, health, and leadership initiatives for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
“Sarah and Toby provide the leadership, vision, and commitment that drive our movement forward,” said Pete Beale-DelVecchio, President & CEO of Special Olympics Illinois. “Together, we will continue creating a more inclusive world where every athlete has the opportunity to use their abilities and thrive.”
There are many ways to support Champions Ball, whether through attending, donating, or sponsoring.
Let’s champion every athlete and make 2025 Champions Ball unforgettable.
by Michelle Mayer | Jun 16, 2025 | Athletes, Families, Healthy Athletes, LETR, Sports, State Tournaments, Statewide, Volunteers
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of competition and celebration at the 2025 Summer Games! Athletes, families, coaches, and fans will gather in Bloomington-Normal for three inspiring days packed with more than just sports. From health and wellness offerings to family-friendly fun, here’s your guide to everything you won’t want to miss.
Momentum Refresh
Come check out the Momentum Refresh vehicle located in the parking lot at the south end of the ISU track. We are proud to offer this universally designed, ADA-compliant mobile restroom and changing area, bringing a new level of accessibility and inclusivity for all participants, families, and fans.
Healthy Athletes
Athletes may take part in free screenings in Special Smiles, Healthy Hearing, Opening Eyes, and FunFitness on Friday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at CEFCU (Redbird) Arena. Plus, don’t forget to visit the Healthy Habits Station for water refills and healthy living tips, located at the top of the Redbird Ramp.
Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg
Members of Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run will conclude the Final Leg of their week-long, intrastate relay, carrying the Flame of Hope to its final destination of Opening Ceremony on Friday. Officers will run from The Shoppes at College Hills to Hancock Stadium starting at 7:30 PM.
Opening Ceremony
This momentous evening will feature the Parade of Athletes, Athlete Oath, special guest speakers, live entertainment, and the famous lighting of the cauldron. The event kicks off at Hancock Stadium at 8:00 PM on Friday. Can’t make it in person? Watch the inspiring ceremony as we live stream the event.
Young Athletes Statewide Culminating Event
Witness the joy of our Young Athletes program as kids ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities participate in a series of obstacles on Friday at 2:00 PM at Hancock Stadium. Pre-event registration is required.
Olympic Town
Open at ISU’s Turner Hall Parking Lot on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Olympic Town will offer a variety of family-friendly activities, including carnival games, an LETR dunk tank, live entertainment, a dance party, and more. We encourage everyone to come and take part in this free and fun event.
Families
Special Olympics Illinois celebrates families at Summer Games with activities like Family Registration at Horton Field House, Olympic Town, Grossinger Arena and Normal Community High School. Stop by for event flyers, Fan Zone fun, and a free raffle! Families can also attend the free Family Tailgate Picnic on Friday night from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Pre registration is required.
Victory Dance
Dance the night away on Saturday from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM in Uptown Normal. Athletes can enjoy the chance to celebrate the weekend’s accomplishments, socialize with old and new friends, and just let loose!
View the Summer Games event website for more. Want to get live event updates? Text “summer” to 844-393-0980.
