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Photo from UPS
From May 8 to 11 in La Louvière, Belgium, 3,400 athletes with Intellectual disabilities They showed off their skills in 20 different sports. Out of 2,000 volunteers, a team of UPS employees was able to UPS The Brussels regional office and UPS hub in Diegem helped organize the event to keep the annual tradition alive. This year, the newly created Focus On Abilities business resource group joined the event. They took care of logistics before and after the event, spending a day or more guiding the athletes through skills assessments, their preparation for the competition and even the excitement of the medal ceremony.
Photo from Special Olympics Belgium
Create memories of endless joy!
UPS employees not only helped make the event run smoothly, but they also made it a memorable experience for all the athletes, coaches and their families. It was a pleasure to witness and experience this endless joy up close. True to the Special Olympics motto, participation is more than winning, and all the athletes deserve recognition for their incredible efforts and what they teach us in the process.
“The event was very comprehensive.”
“I realised that these athletes with disabilities are happier than most of us who don’t face any barriers in life. It gives us a unique perspective, and maybe our worries aren’t as big as we like to think – they are inspiring role models. The event was so nice, inclusive and full of positivity and camaraderie!” says Giannina.
“The athletes inspired everyone who participated in the event with their energy and joy,” she added. “Each athlete brings their own story and passion, creating diversity and, most importantly, a deep sense of community that you can only experience through Special Olympics.”
“Inclusion and sport go hand in hand”
“The moment I remember most is the awards ceremony. Whether it was first or last place, the joy and pride the athletes felt when they received their medals is indescribable. It is clear evidence that inclusion and sporting achievement can go hand in hand, and can feed off each other,” says Jan.
Photo from UPS
“As a volunteer, I experienced real integration.”
“I have had the pleasure of supporting many Special Olympics events over the past few years, but every time I go home I feel so proud and energized, knowing that another part of the barrier to true inclusion has been broken down, and that we have given all athletes a chance to showcase their abilities. As a volunteer, I can experience what true inclusion is all about,” says Nicolo.
Our shared values: inclusion, equality and diversity
UPS has sponsored the Special Olympics National Games in more than 14 countries for several years. The logistics company strives to create an inclusive environment for everyone, and like the Special Olympics, Focus on the Business Resource Group for Capabilities At UPS Belgium, this initiative aims to foster a culture that embraces and supports UPS employees with disabilities. With the support of the UPS Foundation, UPS’s charitable arm, the company encourages employees to volunteer for organizations that share their values of inclusion, equality and diversity.
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