Stefanie Curtis moved from Germany to the U.S. at 12, facing language barriers and loneliness. Through Special Olympics, she discovered confidence and a chosen family that has helped her reach the 2026 USA Games!

Inclusion is good for the heart. Special Olympics Massachusetts helps people with IDD build stronger hearts through movement, health screenings, and community—supporting both physical and emotional well-being.

Mary Carlene Mosca, one of the earliest Special Olympics athletes, inspired a movement for inclusion. Her legacy lives on as her family continues to honor her through the Polar Plunge.

From international competition to USA Games prep, Unified teams traveling coast to coast, athlete voices being heard, and friendships formed on and off the field, 2025 highlighted how inclusion creates moments bigger than medals.

Youth pathways expanded, Unified city schools multiplied, basketball returned, running opportunities grew, and participation surged 121%. Boston showed what’s possible when inclusive sports are built citywide.

From Umana’s ESPN Honor Roll recognition to a statewide UCS conference, student-led acts of inclusion, championship celebrations, and unforgettable Unified moments, schools across the state showed what’s possible when everyone is included.

From marathon expansion and unforgettable Boston moments, to honoring Healthy Heroes and Diamond-level LETR success, 2025 showcased the power of community and how coming together through inclusion creates lasting impact.

Boston and Lawrence schools are embracing Unified programming to break down barriers and help students discover strengths they didn’t know they had. Along the way, they're proving that inclusion can transform entire school communities!

As the year winds down and the winter months settle in, many push through busy schedules. But no matter our role at Special Olympics MA, one of the most valuable gifts we can give ourselves this season is rest.

On Nov. 20th, we celebrated our top 2025 Bio-Ball fundraisers at TD Garden!