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Special Olympics New York Celebrates Partnership with Stewart’s Holiday Fund

Proceeds to Benefit Young Athletes Programs in the Capital District Region

Albany, NY – With the giving season just around the corner, Special Olympics New York is pleased to announce its selection as one of the beneficiaries of the Stewart’s Holiday Fund.

From Thanksgiving until Christmas, Stewart’s has pledged to match individual in-store donations made to Special Olympics New York. These funds will support the Capital District Region Young Athletes program.

“We have big plans for our Young Athletes program in the Capital District,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York in a recent video interview. “We want more programs in every preschool, in every recreational center. We can’t do it without the generous support of Stewart’s shoppers and the Stewart’s Holiday Fund.”

Young Athletes provides inclusive play opportunities to children of all abilities, generally ages 2-7. It engages children with and without intellectual disabilities in activities important to mental and physical development, such as running, balance, and catching, while also teaching inclusion at a young age and preparing athletes for Special Olympics training and competition when they become eligible at age 8.

Now in its 35th year, the Stewart’s Shops Holiday Match Program has raised over $32 million for local charities benefitting children.

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 About Special Olympics New York 

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 51,000 registered Athletes and Unified Partners across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with about 250 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

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