2018 Dennis Schmidt Impact Award

Since 2004, the President & CEO of Special Olympics Indiana has had the honor each year of naming one individual who exemplifies the “Spirit of Special Olympics” but who oftentimes goes unnoticed, someone who places the athletes above him or herself and who helps us to grow and improve our great program. Brian Glick, from Tippecanoe County, has dedicated his entire life to furthering the Special Olympics movement through Athlete Leadership.

Spirit of Special Olympics Indiana: 2018 ‘Michael Furnish’ Athlete of the Year

Named in honor of the former Special Olympics Indiana President & CEO, the ‘Michael Furnish’ Athlete of the Year Award recognizes the accomplishments, both on and off the playing field, of an athlete who embodies the Spirit of Special Olympics through hard work, determination, and a positive attitude. Katie Baumgartle, a Team Indiana swimmer who earned two silver medals at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, has earned that distinction for her many achievements as an athlete, a fundraiser, and a student.

The Voice of a Movement

Diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and other developmental disabilities after coming to America, learning English was just the first challenge on Anastasia Helmich’s road to becoming a Special Olympics athlete leader and Health Messenger.

Special Olympics Youth of the Week: Thomas Day and Federico Romero

This July, Thomas and Frederico will be attending the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle to participate in the Youth Leadership Experience (YLE). Along with Unified pairs from across the country, Thomas and Frederico were chosen for the YLE because of their leadership skills and passion for inclusion.