Special Olympics Illinois (SOILL) hosted a panel discussion on the employment of people with disabilities at the Athlete Leadership Academy, held at the Hyatt O’Hare in Rosemont, on November 9. 

Over 100 Athlete Leaders attended the event, which included Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs, SOILL Athlete Leaders Zynira Ross and Katie O’Neill, along with their mothers Simyra and Kathy, Sarah Glavin from Amazon, and Gus Vonderheide from Hyatt. 

The discussion highlighted Amazon’s efforts in inclusive hiring practices. Through its partnership with SOILL, Amazon has employed individuals with intellectual disabilities at Amazon Fresh locations in Illinois.

Special Olympics Illinois, established in 1968, works to support individuals with intellectual disabilities through year-round sports training, competition, and leadership programs. The organization serves a community of over 55,000 athletes, Unified partners, coaches, and volunteers. SOILL aims to promote physical fitness, self-confidence, social skills, and community support as part of its mission to create an inclusive culture.

The panel discussed the role organizations like Special Olympics play in supporting not only athletic pursuits but personal and professional development.