“Because when I say what I think, my dreams—OUR dreams!—come true!”
Athlete Leader and Special Olympics Illinois Board of Directors member, Colleen Costello (Region J) reminded us during our Summer Games Opening Ceremony that real progress happens when we listen, collaborate, and dream together.
Her words reflect the heart of our movement: athletes shaping the future side-by-side with staff, volunteers, and partners.
As we shift into the rhythm of back-to-school season, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible momentum we’ve built together over the summer.
Our Summer Games were a powerful celebration of athlete achievement and community spirit. While the heat led to some necessary adjustments, the heart of the Games remained strong, thanks to the resilience of our athletes and the dedication of our volunteers, families, and staff. One of the most inspiring moments came when our longtime partners at Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) presented a check for more than $5.25 million in support of our mission. That kind of commitment fuels everything we do.
We celebrated a series of state tournaments across Illinois, including tennis, softball, and golf. Each event was a showcase of athleticism, teamwork, and joy, serving as a reminder of the power found in inclusive sports.
Alongside competition, our summer was packed with fundraising events that brought communities together in fun and meaningful ways. From Row 4 Dough to the Chicago Ducky Derby, followed by the Southern Illinois Ducky Derby, as well as Plane Pull and Truck Convoy in southern Illinois, these gatherings helped raise critical funds and awareness for our athletes.
The summer also marked the launch of the Center of Excellence (COE)—a simple and straightforward, online portal designed to help athletes, coaches, volunteers, and members of the circle of care register quickly and communicate in real time. It’s a big step forward in making our systems more efficient and accessible.
Now, we’re gearing up for a busy and exciting fall. On the fundraising front, we’re looking forward to:
O’Hare Plane Pull
Truck Convoys in Hoffman Estates and Tinley Park
Coaster Challenge
Champions Ball
We are preparing for our final state tournaments of the season, including Fall Games, bowling, flag football, and floor hockey. These competitions are a chance to close out the year strong and celebrate everything our athletes have accomplished.
And, we continue to build on the Core Four strategic framework as we move into Year Two of implementation. This work is helping us stay focused on what matters most and drive meaningful impact across the state.
Finally, we’re thrilled to begin preparations for the 2026 USA Games. It’s an exciting time for our athletes and delegation, and we can’t wait to share more in the months ahead.
There are so many ways to be part of the movement this fall. Whether you cheer on our athletes, volunteer at a tournament, or participate in a fundraiser, your involvement makes a difference.
Visit SOILL.org to find your way to get involved.
With gratitude,
Pete Beale-DelVecchio
President & CEO, Special Olympics Illinois