San Mateo County's $750,000 investment in Special Olympics earned the county its first-ever government volunteer award from the organization, a recognition presented at the 2026 Summer Games in August.
Special Olympics Northern California gave the county its inaugural Government Partner Volunteer of the Year Award during the Summer Games at Santa Clara University, where more than 1,000 athletes, coaches and volunteers gathered for three days of competition. The Games featured track and field, tennis and swimming, along with health screenings, nightly dances and a Parade of Athletes.
Supervisor Lisa Gauthier and County Executive Mike Callagy accepted the award on the county's behalf.
"One of my favorite moments was seeing everyone dancing, celebrating and simply having a great time together," Gauthier said. "It was such a joyful reminder of the sense of community and belonging Special Olympics creates."
The money behind the medal
In November 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved $750,000 in Measure K funding over three years to help Special Olympics Northern California expand locally. The half-cent countywide sales tax, approved by voters in 2016 with more than 70% support, generates roughly $85 million a year and runs through 2043.
The Special Olympics funding covers outreach to schools and recreation programs, recruitment of athletes and volunteer coaches, and transportation for participants who otherwise could not get to competitions.
Local reach
Special Olympics Northern California lists Burlingame among the San Mateo County communities where it runs free sports programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The Hillsborough City Elementary School District has its own Schools Partnership Program with the organization, connecting students to inclusive sports and education opportunities.
David Solo, president and CEO of Special Olympics Northern California, called the county's commitment crucial to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities participate in sports. The organization serves more than 31,000 participants across Northern California with support from over 21,000 volunteers and coaches.
How to get involved
Families in Burlingame and Hillsborough interested in Special Olympics programs can register or find upcoming schedules at sonc.org/be-an-athlete/san-mateo-county. The three-year Measure K commitment runs through approximately 2027, and the 2026 summer sports registration window opened May 15.
