San Mateo County earns first-ever Special Olympics government partner award after $750,000 investment
San Mateo, California – A three-year local investment is now carrying statewide recognition for San Mateo County, after its support for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities earned a first-of-its-kind honor from Special Olympics Northern California.
The County received the inaugural Government Partner Volunteer of the Year Award during the 2026 Special Olympics Northern California Summer Games, a three-day gathering at Santa Clara University that brought together more than 1,000 athletes, coaches and volunteers.
Supervisor Lisa Gauthier and County Executive Mike Callagy accepted the award on behalf of San Mateo County.
The Summer Games opened with the Parade of Athletes before moving into competitions that included track and field, swimming and tennis. Athletes and participants also took part in health screenings, nightly dances and other activities throughout the event.
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For San Mateo County, the recognition follows a significant financial commitment made nearly two years earlier. In November 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved $750,000 in Measure K funding over three years to help Special Olympics Northern California expand its work in the county.
That money supports outreach to schools and recreation programs, recruitment of athletes and volunteer coaches, and transportation for people who may otherwise have difficulty reaching competitions and events.
Special Olympics Northern California said the award reflects both the County’s partnership and its investment in creating more opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate in sports.
“We are grateful for the support of San Mateo County and we’re proud to honor them as the Special Olympics Northern California Government Partner Volunteer of the Year,” said David Solo, president and CEO of the organization.
“The County’s commitment is crucial to help us uplift and inspire individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through the power of sports.”
For Gauthier, however, one of the strongest memories from the Summer Games came away from the competition itself.
“One of my favorite moments was seeing everyone dancing, celebrating and simply having a great time together,” she said. “It was such a joyful reminder of the sense of community and belonging Special Olympics creates.”
The award puts a new spotlight on a partnership designed to continue beyond a single weekend. With Measure K funding extending across three years, the County’s support is intended to help grow participation while strengthening the network of volunteers and coaches behind the Games.
