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Built and fortified by generations, Special Olympics is home to many. What we may lack in biological ties, we more than compensate for with our shared commitment to inclusion and a sense of belonging. Special Olympics Michigan athlete Max Gilbert was raised by parents who taught him the importance of embracing people’s differences from a young age. And with Special Olympics, he has always felt right at home.

For nearly five years, Lindsay has worked as a tea barista at ExtraSpecialTeas, where she assists with baking operations, brewing and supporting their community-based day programs

For nearly five years, Lindsay has worked as a tea barista at ExtraSpecialTeas, where she assists with baking operations, brewing and supporting their community-based day programs

Special Olympics Alaska athlete Sulynnette Ledesma has many a trick up her sleeve. Born in the tropics of Bayamón, Puerto Rico, she now feels at home on the snowy slopes of Anchorage, Alaska. At five years old, her mother and stepfather relocated their family to Alaska, in search of improved health services for her brother, who has autism.

Peter Gianatiempo’s parents both grew up in the colorful New York City borough of Queens. One day, his father walked into a pizza place, where he met an employee wearing a nametag that read “Gianatiempo.” The man was speaking Italian, so Peter’s father questioned their potential familial relation. As it turned out, both their families originated from Naples, Italy. A tie that bound them together, they remain friends to this day.

160 Athletes, Coaches and Staff to Represent the United States at Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025

With more than 1,000 candles lining a 10-kilometer course, skiers and snowshoers trek across a frozen Lake Superior at night. Each year, Book Across the Bay attracts outdoor enthusiasts and athletes to the City of Ashland, Wisconsin. For the Bluemonds, it’s a family tradition. In less than 50 minutes, Special Olympics Illinois athlete Ben Bluemond can finish the race.

Two and a half years ago, Special Olympics Michigan athlete Christina Danieli became a mother. While her day-to-day life changed, her love for competitive swimming remained a constant. Many hours spent in the pool strengthened her endurance and her stamina. She learned to maintain a high level of focus and dedication to training, all of which prepared her for becoming a mother to Andrew. Now inseparable, the two cherish time spent together, especially when it’s spent in the water.

At 8 years old, Scott McCullough was introduced to Special Olympics and 40 years later, he is still walking the walk. This time, it’s on snowshoes. From Nashua, New Hampshire, McCullough trained in a variety of sports with Special Olympics New Hampshire long before he learned of snowshoeing. Now nominated to represent Special Olympics USA in the Special Olympics World Winter Games Torino 2025, he’s proven his ability to walk that walk. And for those who know McCullough, he can talk the talk too.