The 2024 Race for Inclusion campaign has crossed the finish line
The 2024 Race for Inclusion brought people together across Florida to celebrate inclusion and support the athletes of Special Olympics Florida. With record-breaking participation, impactful partnerships and inspiring stories, this year’s campaign highlighted the power of unity in creating a more inclusive world.
Statewide Impact
This year’s campaign raised $650,000 statewide – with thousands of participants joining races and events in New Port Richey, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Palm Beach, Gainesville and Miami. Each event reflected the unique character of its community while advancing the mission of Special Olympics Florida.
The campaign introduced new milestones, including the inaugural Unified Champion Schools Race, the launch of a Speaker Series, and a diverse range of activities that celebrated inclusion statewide.
Races Across Florida
New Port Richey – Kicking Off the Campaign at Chasco Fiesta
The campaign launched with a vibrant 5K in New Port Richey as part of the annual Chasco Fiesta. This festive kickoff brought together local families, businesses, and volunteers to start the Race for Inclusion season on a high note.
Jacksonville – Presented by CSX
Jacksonville’s Race for Inclusion – hosted by CSX – featured a significant moment when the City of Jacksonville presented a proclamation recognizing Special Olympics Florida’s impact. The event highlighted the strength of partnerships and community support in advancing inclusion.
Orlando – Two Unique Events
Orlando was the site of two impactful events. The first was an Open Water Swim at Lucky’s Lake, where athletes and supporters dove into a morning of fun and competition. Later in the year, the city came alive at the 5K at Sunset Walk – offering a vibrant backdrop for runners and supporters alike.
Pensacola – Community Spirit at Bayview Park
The Pensacola Race for Inclusion – held at Bayview Park – was a heartwarming celebration of community. Volunteers lined the course with handmade signs, cheering on all the runners and walkers. The event also featured a new Kids’ Run, inviting young athletes and families to join the fun.
Palm Beach – Golf Networking at Drive Shack
In Palm Beach, the Race for Inclusion took the form of a golf event at Drive Shack, blending fun and networking. Corporate partners teed up for an evening of friendly competition while building connections in support of Special Olympics Florida’s mission.
Gainesville – Student-Driven Inclusion at University of Florida
The Gainesville Race for Inclusion was planned and executed entirely by the Special Olympics College Club on the campus of the University of Florida. This student-led event showcased the next generation’s passion for advancing inclusion and supporting Special Olympics athletes.
Miami – A Grand Finale at Bayfront Park
The Miami 5K, held at Bayfront Park, served as the culminating event of the campaign. The day featured appearances by sports teams’ mascots and Jesus Luzardo – Miami Marlins pitcher and Race for Inclusion ambassador. The event brought the community together in a vibrant celebration of inclusion and teamwork.
Unified Champion Schools Race
On December 3, in honor of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Unified Champion Schools across Miami-Dade County hosted the first-ever Unified Champion Schools Race for Inclusion. Students, teachers, staff, and Special Olympics Florida athletes joined forces to celebrate inclusion while raising funds to support Unified programs.
Speaker Series
Orlando – Healthcare and Inclusion Panel
Hosted by Orlando Health,
this panel explored the critical connection between healthcare and
inclusion. Panelists shared actionable insights on improving healthcare
access for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Miami – Transportation and Accessibility Panel
Hosted by Brightline, this discussion focused on the importance of accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. Panelists highlighted innovative solutions and their potential to foster independence and inclusion.
Disability Pride Month Celebration
In July, the campaign celebrated Disability Pride Month by sharing stories of Special Olympics Florida athletes. These stories, featured across digital platforms, highlighted their accomplishments and the profound impact of inclusion in their lives.
Athlete Leaders: Champions of Inclusion
The campaign spotlighted the voices of athlete leaders, who shared their personal stories with media outlets and at events. Through their words, they conveyed the importance of inclusion and the transformative role Special Olympics Florida has played in their lives.
Sponsor Engagement and Networking
Sponsors played an essential role in the campaign’s success. Networking events hosted by Miami hotspots Truluck's, Salty Flame, and Komodo, as well as The Wharf at Sunset Walk in Orlando, provided opportunities for corporate partners to connect, share ideas, and deepen their commitment to inclusion. These gatherings strengthened relationships and laid the groundwork for future collaborations, amplifying the campaign’s impact.
Looking Ahead: The Power of Inclusion
The 2024 Race for Inclusion united communities, empowered athletes, and created lasting partnerships to support Special Olympics Florida’s mission. With its success, the campaign builds momentum for even greater impact in 2025.
Join us next year to be part of this incredible movement. Donate, volunteer, or race with us to make a difference.
Learn More About the Race for Inclusion
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