In 2025, the strength of Special Olympics Massachusetts was powered by an extraordinary community of supporters. From runners taking the mission across the globe, to corporate partners championing inclusion, to law enforcement leaders carrying the Flame of Hope, these moments highlight how collective action drives real change. Here’s a look at some standout community-centered highlights from 2025:

XtraMile Makes Incredible Strides

The XtraMile program expanded like never before, adding both the Chicago and Berlin Marathons to its list for the first time. The XtraMile is giving participants new opportunities to run internationally while representing the mission of Special Olympics MA. And back home, the 2025 Boston Marathon truly set the bar. Form unforgettable race-day moments, to runners who were more connected to the mission than ever, the 2025 Boston Marathon team highlighted how peer fundraising and inclusion through sports can change lives.

Point32Health Celebrates Healthy Heroes

For the first year, Point32 recognized "Healthy Heroes," who are individuals promoting wellness, inclusion, and community impact. Through inspiring stories and awards, this campaign showcases how health and advocacy can go hand-in-hand to empower all athletes.  The 2025 Healthy Hero Recipients include:

·       James Keith – a competitive athlete in basketball, track, soccer, skiing, and powerlifting. His impact extends far beyond his own training, as he is a swim instructor for children! James instills confidence and a love for fitness in the next generation.

·       Dee Cotter – a multi-sport athlete from Cape Cod’s LIFE program, Dee has earned medals at the 2022 USA Games and inspires inclusion and wellness statewide as a Special Olympics MA Inclusion Ambassador, including her impactful journey on the Final Leg.

·       Beth Donahue – has spent 20 years with Special Olympics MA, embracing the mission to “try new things and challenge myself.” A competitive athlete in soccer, skiing, track and field, and softball, she brings energy to everything she does, and shares it with others by leading Zumba, fitness sessions, and pre-race stretches.

Massachusetts Law Enforcement Torch Run Achieves Diamond Recognition
The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Massachusetts reached international Diamond Level of Excellence status—one of the highest honors in the global Torch Run movement. This recognition is awarded to programs that surpass extraordinary fundraising benchmarks, exceeding $1 million. Achieving Diamond Level reflects not only incredible financial impact, but also the deep, longstanding partnership between law enforcement and the Special Olympics movement.

Officer Larry Jedrey Represents Massachusetts LETR at World Games

Massachusetts Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Leadership Council Officer Larry “LJ” Jedrey brought the Special Olympics mission to the world stage, sharing his powerful story with supporters in Cuneo, Italy during the Final Leg of bringing the Flame of Hope to the Special Olympics World Games in Turin. Representing Massachusetts and the global LETR movement, LJ highlighted the impact of inclusion and the Law Enforcement partnership.

Statehouse Day 2025: Athletes Lead the Way in Advocacy

Special Olympics Massachusetts athletes, Youth Activation Council (YAC) members, families, and staff gathered at the Massachusetts State House to thank more than 100 state representatives and senators, and advocate for continued support of inclusion. The day featured inspiring remarks from state leaders, including Special Olympics athlete Melissa Reilly, who delivered a keynote and highlighted the importance of respectful, inclusive language in legislation through her work on the archaic language bill.

2025 Hall of Fame Class Announced

In June, we welcomed to the Special Olympics Massachusetts Hall of Fame:

·      Athletes John & Kyle Titus: Identical twins who bring double the heart, hustle, and humor. Together, they have helped to grow the Law Enforcement Torch Run program and have an unwavering passion and dedication to inclusion.

·      The Dyer Family: Whose story began with Special Olympics and grew into a lifelong, multi-generational commitment to inclusion, leadership, and heart.

·      Educator & Coach Nick DiAntonio: From middle school volunteer to coach, program founder, and educator, Nick’s lifelong dedication to Special Olympics has built top-tier Unified programs and lasting community impact.

·      Athlete Scott Fraser: For nearly four decades, Scott has been a dedicated Special Olympics leader and Inclusion Ambassador, channeling his athletic achievements, personal resilience, and advocacy to honor his late partner Lauren’s legacy.

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