At the 2025 Champions Ball, our premier annual gala dedicated to celebrating and fundraising for athletes with intellectual disabilities across the state, we will spotlight two individuals whose powerful stories capture the spirit of the evening and demonstrate our mission in action.
This year’s Champions Ball will honor Chicago athletes, Brandon Dorsey, our featured athlete speaker, and Anthony Walker, who will co-host the evening alongside WGN’s Emmy Award-winning anchor Erin McElroy.
Brandon Dorsey Speaking from the Heart
Brandon’s journey with Special Olympics Illinois began with encouragement from his teachers, and it’s been a story of growth and determination ever since. Living in Chicago with his mom, Brandon has found community through sports like flag football and basketball.
His proudest moments come from pushing past challenges and chasing dreams, like helping his team win a three-peat championship at the IHSA State Basketball Tournament. “When they hadn’t won before, I used that as fuel,” he says. “You just have to keep going.”
Brandon’s speech at the Champions Ball will reflect his experience as an athlete, a teammate, and a leader. “I like to be thrown into the fire,” he says with a smile. “I’m chill about it, I like surprises.” Whether he is producing music, strumming his guitar, or rocking his favorite sneakers, Brandon brings creativity and confidence to everything he does.
To him, inclusion means showing up, supporting others, and being part of something bigger. “You don’t have to know everybody,” he says. “But when people rock with you, it’s enjoyable.”
Anthony Walker Co-Hosting with Style
Anthony Walker is a Chicago native with a love for sports, old-school R&B, and making people smile. He has been part of Special Olympics Illinois for more than 17 years, competing in basketball, softball, flag football, volleyball, bocce, and snowshoeing. His motto? “Do your best. We ain’t giving up.”
Anthony lives with his brother Aaron, who describes him as “brilliant and excellent.” In his free time, Anthony enjoys watching Wheel of Fortune, washing dishes, and scrolling on his smartphone. He is also a fan of Bobby Womack and Teddy Pendergrass, music that reflects his smooth, classic vibe.
One of Anthony’s proudest moments came during Autism Awareness Month, when his voice was featured on the CTA’s L train announcements. His dad, a longtime bus driver on the 43rd route, and has since passed away, would have been proud.
As co-host of the Champions Ball, Anthony will bring charisma, humor, and heart to the program. “You have to get involved in stuff,” he says. And he is doing just that, acting in the spirit of inclusion and leadership that defines Special Olympics Illinois.
Brandon and Anthony remind us that when athletes are supported to use their abilities, their impact reaches far beyond the playing field.
Help us as we honor these athletes by joining us at this year’s Champions Ball.