What is Leaders Council?

Leaders Council is a diverse group of mid- to senior-level professionals and philanthropists from throughout the Chicagoland area who are dedicated to building a sustainable future for Special Olympics Illinois (SOILL). As members of Leaders Council, these established and rising professionals leverage their unique combination of expertise and passion, as well as their networks, to amplify the SOILL mission of creating a more inclusive, integrated community for all individuals with intellectual disabilities.

LC MJ Amy
LC Beatriz

Leaders Council Mission

Leaders Council seeks to create sustainable funding to enhance Special Olympics Illinois programming, to identify and develop future Special Olympics Illinois leaders and partners, and to increase awareness of the mission of Special Olympics Illinois.   

Leaders Council Goals & Objectives

Members of Leaders Council are action seekers as they work to advance the reach and mission of Special Olympics Illinois. Their efforts are focused on the following goals and objectives: 

  • Serve as an ambassador for Special Olympics Illinois in the community    
  • Drive revenue to Special Olympics Illinois and recruit new partners    
  • Create a pipeline for Special Olympics Illinois Foundation and Board membership    
  • Open your network to recruit individuals, businesses and/or organizations to support Special Olympics Illinois through in-kind contributions, financial support, and volunteerism
  • Champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts at your place of employment
  • Support chosen Leaders Council fundraising events and initiatives
  • Serve on volunteer committees (e.g., Champions Ball Revenue Committee)   

Benefits of Joining Leaders Council

Joining Leaders Council gives you access to benefits that have the potential to meaningfully affect both your professional and personal lives:  

  • Make a lasting impact for SOILL athletes, families, and volunteers 
  • Continue building the legacy and mission of a globally renowned organization  
  • Develop your professional skillset via Council and committee leadership opportunities   
  • Network with like-minded professionals across a variety of industries  
  • Access SOILL’s distinguished executives and leaders
  • Be considered for a seat on the SOILL Board of Directors or ILSO Foundation  

Who Can Join Leaders Council?

Leaders Council is seeking self-starters that share our passion for the Special Olympics Illinois mission and vision. We're seeking changemakers, connectors, and advocates that have an appreciation for planning but place higher value on action and results. If you have a growth mindset that you'd love to apply to a life-changing mission, we’d love to speak with you!   

Members can potentially come from a wide spectrum of backgrounds:

  • Business/Industry leaders   
  • SOILL athletes, volunteers, coaches, and family members  
  • Key community stakeholders (e.g., Law Enforcement Torch Run officers, politicians, community partners)
  • Rising leaders from the Special Olympics Illinois Young Professionals Board
  • Anyone with a deep connection to the Special Olympics Illinois mission 

Interested in Joining?

Please fill out the following interest form and a member of the SOILL staff will be in contact to set up a time to discuss your interest and Leaders Council requirements.