Valley Children’s Support Boosts Opportunities for Special Olympics Athletes

Published July 1, 2026

FRESNO, Calif. – A partnership between Valley Children’s Healthcare and Special Olympics Northern California is helping expand access to inclusive sports programs for athletes across the Central Valley.

The collaboration, which began in 2025, has strengthened recruitment and retention efforts, increased program opportunities and improved access for athletes throughout the region.

“Having something like this that brings so many people together from so many different walks of life – there’s no words for how really special that is,” said Molly Marquez, director of development for Special Olympics Northern California.

Marquez said the demand for inclusive recreational opportunities remains high across the Central Valley. Nearly 1,200 athletes participated in Special Olympics Northern California events in 2025.

“There’s a big need in the Central Valley for services like what Special Olympics is offering,” she said. “Having this space where anyone can feel welcome and included is needed everywhere.”

During the partnership’s first year, Valley Children’s support helped Special Olympics Northern California recruit and retain athletes, expand programs to meet participation levels and increase access to events. The healthcare provider also provided signage and event announcements at regional competitions.

Marquez said Special Olympics creates opportunities for athletes of all abilities to participate, build skills and develop a sense of belonging.

“Special Olympics really embodies the word unity,” she said. “It’s all about making sure that if you want to participate in one of these sports, there’s a way for you to be included and to feel welcome and to really learn some new skills and have fun while you do it.”

For Valley Children’s, the partnership aligns with its efforts to support children’s health beyond traditional clinical settings.

“We know that health happens outside the hospital walls,” said Dr. Hailey Nelson, complex care pediatrician with Valley Children’s Healthcare. “We can help children thrive in our communities when they’re active and they’re playing, and that’s part of being healthy.”

Dr. Nelson said participation in sports and community activities sends an important message of inclusion and acceptance.

“It’s really about building a community that says, ‘I see you’ and that you’re a valued member here,” she said. “And that includes playing sports.”

For families, the impact extends beyond athletic competition.

Theresa Costa, whose child participates in Special Olympics programs, said the organization provides recognition and a sense of purpose that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

“The kids love to get recognized and they get to be that person for the day, so that’s a big deal to them,” Costa said. “Special Olympics really creates that space, gives them the chance to get out there, to feel valued, to be needed. Being part of a team really matters to them.”

Marquez said Special Olympics Northern California is grateful for the support of a regional healthcare partner that understands the diverse needs of Central Valley residents.

“Having a Central Valley regional partner that truly understands the importance of being in the community, understanding the different abilities that exist here in the Central Valley, is just really, really special,” she said. “We’re so grateful for this partnership, and we hope to be highlighting it for years to come.”