Photography by Anna Spindelenderer
The MAPFRE Foundation awarded Special Olympics the “Best Entity for Social Impact Award” at a ceremony at the Royal Casino in Madrid, Spain, on October 8.
The award was presented to David Evangelista, President of Special Olympics Europe and EurasiaAnd Valentina Garcia Loach, Special Olympics Spain Athlete by Her Majesty Queen Sofia of Spain.
This award, valued at 40,000 euros, is presented annually in recognition of the work of institutions or organizations that have, throughout their history, carried out important and effective work in various fields, including social, cultural and health initiatives. .
“I want to express our deep gratitude to the MAPFRE Foundation, Special Olympics Spain, and Her Majesty Queen Sofia for their continued support,” Evangelista said.
“This award belongs not only to Special Olympics, but to each of the millions of athletes who have shown that with courage and determination, adversity, stigma and discrimination can be overcome.”
“We stand with them, their families and their communities, united by our shared vision. Together, we make the world better through inclusion, in sport and in life.”
“I would like to take this moment to acknowledge the leadership of my dear friend, in fact, our dear friend Enrique Blessa, who cannot be here with us physically today, but who is always very present with us.”
“For me, being a Special Olympics athlete is more than just an achieved goal; it is a journey that has changed me in a profound way,” Garcia Loach added. “I have an intellectual disability, and although the road has not always been easy, and although I have had to face… Not being understood by many, I have never let this reality define my potential, and I am sure I can deliver just as good as anyone else.
“Special Olympics had a huge role in this journey. When I found it, I felt like a new world had opened up to me. Sports helped me get out of my comfort zone and discover that with effort and dedication, the limits to what we can achieve that we think exist only in our minds.”
“This award we receive represents every athlete who works hard every day, striving to break down the barriers of bias and prove that we are all capable.”
It was also awarded in this edition with the Núria Espert (Lifetime Professional Achievement Award), the Moda re- (Best Project or Initiative for Social Impact), and the Joselito (Best Initiative in the Agricultural Sector Award).
