What a week in Springfield! Our Team Illinois delegation heading to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games was recognized on the House floor at the Illinois State Capitol. This was a meaningful moment for our athletes, coaches, and the entire Special Olympics Illinois community.
Over the course of two days, our delegation met with legislators to advocate for the neurodiverse community, from advancing safer schools through anti-bullying efforts and supporting health initiatives that promote early intervention, to strengthening workforce programs that expand access to gainful employment.
We were also proud to attend the Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus Autism Awareness Reception. There is a growing coalition committed to this work and to the individuals and families it serves. We are proud to be a core member of this caucus!
Thank you to Senate President Don Harmon, Senator Elgie Sims Jr., Senator Meg Cappel, Represenative Natalie Manley, Representative Suzanne Ness, Representative Anna Moeller, Representative Sharon Chung, Representative Nicolle See Grasse, Representative Justin Cochran, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and many others for taking the time to meet with our delegation. Their engagement and leadership moves this work forward.
A special thank you to Representative Matt Hanson for sponsoring the Resolution, welcoming Team Illinois to the Capitol, and continuing to be a true champion for Special Olympics athletes and families.
And thank you to Senator Meg Cappel and Representative Natalie Manley, Co-Chairs of the Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus, for their transformative leadership and continued commitment to advancing opportunities for the neurodiverse community.
Investing in these programs is how we create stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities. And this week was a clear reminder of what’s possible when that commitment is shared. View additional photos.