2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games Organizing Committee Inc

The 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games Organizing Committee Inc (EIN: 452853870) was a non-profit organization responsible for organizing the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games, which took place from July 25 to August 2, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. This event was the largest sports-and-humanitarian event in the world in 2015, attracting 7,000 athletes, 3,000 coaches from 177 countries, and an estimated 500,000 spectators.

Background

The 2015 Special Olympics World Games marked the first time in 16 years that the United States hosted the Summer Games, and the second time Los Angeles played host, following the 1972 games. The organizing committee was established to oversee the planning and execution of the event, which featured 25 Olympic-style sports in various venues across the Los Angeles region.

Organization and Key Figures

The committee was led by Patrick McClenahan, who served as the President and CEO. Key supporters and event hosts included the City of Los Angeles, led by then-Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and prominent figures in the sports and entertainment industries. Notable honorary chairs for the event included President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, while Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and California Governor Jerry Brown served as honorary hosts.

Venues and Logistics

The primary venues for the Games included the campuses of the University of Southern California and the University of California, Los Angeles. USC hosted events such as athletics, aquatics, and basketball, while UCLA hosted sports like football, badminton, and gymnastics. Other venues used during the Games included the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which hosted the Opening Ceremony, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and various sports centers throughout the city.

Impact and Legacy

The Games featured an extensive range of activities beyond the competitions, including the lighting of the Special Olympics torch by Rafer Johnson and Destiny Sanchez. The event was covered extensively by media outlets, with ESPN playing a significant role in broadcasting the Games to a global audience. The success of the Games helped promote inclusion and acceptance of athletes with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

Financial and Sponsorship Support

The organization relied on significant financial and sponsorship support from various partners, including major brands like Coca-Cola, Mattel, Deloitte, Toyota, and Disney, among others. This support was crucial in ensuring the logistical success of the event as well as enhancing the athlete experience.

Conclusion

The 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games Organizing Committee Inc played a pivotal role in staging a monumental event that celebrated the talents and perseverance of athletes with intellectual disabilities. Through its efforts, the committee helped foster a more inclusive and supportive environment both locally and globally.