Delaware North commits $125,000 over four years to support Unified Sports in Western New York
ELMA, N.Y. — Special Olympics New York will host the UCS Unified Bocce Tournament presented by Delaware North on Friday, November 6, bringing together approximately 350 Special Olympics Athletes and Unified Partners from 19 Western New York schools for a day of competition, teamwork, and inclusion.
Since its inception in 2022, the tournament has grown from just four participating schools to more than 19, highlighting the continued growth of Unified Sports across the region. The event marks the culmination of the fall bocce season for Unified Champion Schools (UCS) throughout Western New York.
As part of its ongoing commitment to inclusion and community engagement, Delaware North will present a $125,000 commitment over the next four years to support Special Olympics New York and expand opportunities for Athletes through Unified Sports. A check presentation will take place at 10 a.m. during the tournament.
“Delaware North has a long-standing commitment to supporting the communities where we live and work, and we’re proud to support Special Olympics of Western New York’s unified sports,” said Ana Rodriguez, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Delaware North. “Our hope is that this contribution helps create even more opportunities for athletes of all abilities to compete, grow and experience the sense of confidence and belonging that makes Special Olympics so impactful.”
“We are incredibly proud of the growth of Unified Sports throughout Western New York and grateful to Delaware North for helping make that growth possible,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York. “Their continued commitment over the next four years will help create more opportunities for students of all abilities to compete together, build meaningful connections, and experience the power of inclusion through sport.”
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About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is one of the largest state chapters in the country, serving more than 51,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 420 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid and a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.
About Delaware North: Delaware North is a global leader in the hospitality and entertainment industry. The company annually serves more than a half-billion guests across three continents, including at high-profile sports venues, national and state parks, restaurants, resorts, hotels and casinos. Building on more than a century of enduring partnerships and a commitment to local communities and sustainability, Delaware North’s vision is to delight guests by creating the world’s best experiences today while reimagining tomorrow. Learn more at DelawareNorth.com and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.