As part of a commitment to inclusive development, the Aruna Ahbey Oswal Trust has renewed its support for Special Olympics through the empowerment of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across the Caribbean and Europe.

This collaboration, part of the global ‘Mission: Inclusion’ partnership with Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), underscores a shared commitment to enriching the lives of Special Olympics athletes and their families and fostering social inclusion through service, sports, and community engagement.

The partnership recommitment is a major boost as national programmes in the Caribbean and Europe gear up for the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy next month.

Since its inception in 2001, the partnership between Special Olympics International and the LCIF has helped countless individuals with intellectual disabilities gain access to eye health and vision care, health education, inclusive sports, youth engagement and leadership development.

The Aruna Abhey Oswal Trust, a Delhi-based organisation under the visionary leadership of global leader, philanthropist and social activist Aruna Oswal, has played a pivotal role in expanding the ‘Mission: Inclusion’ across the world. Support from the Oswal Trust addresses critical needs while fostering collaboration among Special Olympics national organisations, local Lions Clubs jurisdictions, and local communities.

“We believe in creating a world where every individual, regardless of their abilities, is given the chance to shine. Through our partnership with Special Olympics and Lions Clubs International Foundation, we are driving inclusion and empowering some of the most marginalised communities through service,” Oswal said.

“The joy and sense of belonging we see on the faces of these athletes, their families, Lions Clubs volunteers and Leos inspire us to continue supporting this shared vision. It is a privilege to contribute to such transformative work,” she added.

With the support of the Aruna Abhey Oswal Trust, remarkable success has been seen across the Caribbean, ushering in a strong platform of national and regional collaboration that has been successful in engaging national governments, industry leaders and the global development sector.

By integrating inclusive sports programmes, health education, and youth engagement, this partnership has created new opportunities for people with and without IDD and their families to thrive and has strengthened communities.

Lorna Bell, the executive director of Special Olympics Caribbean Initiatives, outlined the significance of continuing the relationship with the Oswal Trust.

“This partnership exemplifies the power of unity and shared purpose. The Aruna Abhey Oswal Trust’s generosity and Lions Clubs International Foundation’s unwavering commitment allow us to expand the reach of our programming and transform the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

“Together, we are breaking barriers, fostering inclusion, and building stronger communities worldwide. This is not just a collaboration; it is a movement for dignity for all. I feel proud to support Special Olympics and work so closely in partnership with the Lions Clubs International Foundation and the Aruna Abhey Oswal Trust,” Bell said.

Key elements of the partnership across the Caribbean include the activation of Special Olympics Unified Sports, the organisation of key family health education seminars, the expansion of the Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Program (MATP) and the first-ever celebration of the Special Olympics Caribbean Unified Basketball tournament.

The partnership has also extended its reach to other regions, including Europe, where initiatives such as the ‘Unified with Refugees’ programme are making a significant impact. It provides inclusive sports opportunities and family health education to refugees across the region in partnership with the UN Refugee Agency and LCIF.

Dr Patti Hill, LCIF chairperson, said: “Lions Clubs International Foundation has long been dedicated to serving communities in need, and our collaboration with Special Olympics and the Aruna Abhey Oswal Trust furthers this mission in profound ways.

“Together, we are leveraging our global network to ensure no one is left behind, creating opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.”