Fundación MAPFRE recognized Special Olympics with the ‘Best Entity Award for its Social Impact’ at an event held at the Royal Casino of Madrid, Spain, on 8 October.
The award was presented to David Evangelista, President of Special Olympics Europe Eurasia, and Valentina García Lluch, Special Olympics Spain athlete, by Her Majesty Queen Sofía of Spain.
This award, which comes with a prize of 40,000 euros, is presented annually to recognize the work of institutions or organizations that, throughout their history, have carried out significant and effective actions in various fields, including social, cultural, and health-related initiatives.
Evangelista said: "I want to express our deepest gratitude to Fundación MAPFRE, to Special Olympics Spain, and to Her Majesty Queen Sofía, for their continued support."
"This award does not belong solely to the Special Olympics organization, but to each and every one of the millions of athletes who have shown that with courage and determination, all adversities, stigma, and discrimination can be overcome."
"We stand alongside them, their families, and their communities, united by our shared vision. Together, we are making the world better through inclusion, in sports and in life."
"I would like to take this moment to recognize the leadership of my dear friend, in fact, our dear friend Enric Blesa, who cannot be here with us physically today, but is always very much present with us."
García Lluch added: "For me, being a Special Olympics athlete is more than an accomplished goal; it is a journey that has profoundly transformed me. I have an intellectual disability and, although the path has not always been easy, and even though I have had to face the lack of understanding from many, I have never allowed that reality to define my possibilities. I am certain that I can offer just as much as anyone else."
"Special Olympics has had a lot to do with this journey. When I found it, I felt that a new world opened before me. Sports helped me step out of my comfort zone, and discover that, with effort and dedication, the limits we believe we have only exist in our minds."
"This award that we receive represents every athlete who works hard every day, who strives to break down the barriers of prejudice and prove that we are all capable."
Also awarded in this edition were Núria Espert (Lifetime Professional Achievement Award), Moda re- (Best Project or Initiative for Social Impact), and Joselito (Best Initiative in the Agricultural Sector Award).
