In partnership with presenting sponsor Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, the initiative will spotlight and support local changemakers leading up to the 2026 USA Games

As excitement builds for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, Special Olympics Minnesota (SOMN), in collaboration with the 2026 USA Games and presenting sponsor Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, today announced the launch of 26 Weeks of Giving, a powerful new initiative aimed at celebrating and supporting inclusion across Minnesota.

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26 Weeks of Giving will spotlight and support local changemakers leading up to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

Over the six months leading up to the Games, grants will be awarded to individuals and organizations making meaningful strides toward accessibility and belonging in their communities. These grants are made possible by the generosity of the Kathleen F. and David W. MacLennan Foundation.

“Inclusion doesn’t just happen at the USA Games — it starts in our schools, workplaces and neighborhoods,” said Bill Fish, President & CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota. “With 26 Weeks of Giving, we’re honored to recognize and shine a spotlight on changemakers who are removing barriers and creating opportunities for all Minnesotans.”

In addition to financial support, selected grantees will receive visibility through SOMN’s statewide platforms, including media features and storytelling opportunities, to further amplify their impact.

“As an official USA Games partner and presenting sponsor of 26 Weeks of Giving, we're honored to help uplift everyday champions of inclusion who often go unrecognized,” said Dave Larson, CEO of Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union. “This commitment is an extension of our long-standing partnership with Special Olympics Minnesota and our belief in creating a stronger, more inclusive state, one community at a time.”

Applications are open now through September 30. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, community groups, initiatives or individuals who are advancing inclusion and accessibility in Minnesota. Submissions will be reviewed by a diverse committee of SOMN athletes, staff, board members, representatives from Affinity Plus, representatives from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games and community leaders. To apply, visit somn.org/26weeksofgiving.

“This is exactly the type of legacy-building effort that reflects the spirit of the USA Games,” said Christy Sovereign, CEO of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. “We’re proud to help spotlight Minnesotans who are doing incredible work in their communities and embody our mission to celebrate ability, inclusion and human potential.”

About Special Olympics Minnesota

Since 1973, Special Olympics Minnesota has been creating a new world of inclusion and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities by providing year-round sports competitions, inclusive healthcare programs, leadership training, and inclusive school programs. Special Olympics Minnesota envisions a Minnesota where every person, regardless of their ability, has every opportunity to thrive and reach their fullest potential.

About Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

Based in St. Paul, Minn., Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, financial cooperative that puts people first above profits. Members of Affinity Plus receive maximum value through competitive rates, minimal fees, and unique, member-centric products and programs. Established in 1930, Affinity Plus has 35 branches located throughout Minnesota and is owned by more than 280,000 members. Affinity Plus has more than $4.3 billion in assets. Additional information is available at www.affinityplus.org or by calling (800) 322-7228.

About 2026 Special Olympics USA Games

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games—scheduled for June 20-26, 2026, across Minnesota’s Twin Cities with sports competitions at the University of Minnesota and the National Sports Center in Blaine—is a national celebration of inclusivity, changing perceptions and the ability of the human spirit rising above limitations. The USA Games, with co-presenting partners Jersey Mike’s Subs and Unitedhealthcare, will be one of the biggest U.S. sporting events of the year, drawing tens of thousands of fans to celebrate the ability of over 3,000 incredible athletes from all 50 states as they compete in 16 Olympic-type team and individual sports. As a state with a long history of championing diversity, equity and inclusion, the USA Games now bring an unrivaled opportunity to spark new energy around the Special Olympics movement and create a lasting legacy of positive change.

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Special Olympics Minnesota, the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games and presenting sponsor Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union today announced 26 Weeks of Giving, a new initiative aimed at celebrating and supporting inclusion across Minnesota.