Your gift helps turn generosity into action for athletes nationwide
Your donation to the Special Olympics in support of the 2026 Special Olympics Airlift does more than support flights—it helps athletes arrive ready to compete with confidence and pride. Financial contributions go directly to the Special Olympics, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and may offer potential tax benefits for donors.
Every four years, the Airlift helps transport thousands of Special Olympics athletes and coaches to the USA Games. Financial contributions support the planning, coordination and operational needs required to move participating delegations from across the country and make the Airlift possible.
As the world’s largest sports organization for individuals with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics provides year‑round training, competition and health services. By supporting participating delegations with pride, your gift helps create joyful confidence, meaningful opportunities and unforgettable moments for athletes and their families.
Inspire the Journey: Levels of Giving
GOLD — $25,000 • Champion Center Experience
Be the spark that powers possibility. Your leadership gift anchors the Champion Center in Minnesota, so every competitor arrives feeling seen, strong and unstoppable.
SILVER — $10,000 • Ramp Arrival Moment
Turn the arrival into a moment of awe. Help craft a VIP worthy welcome as athletes step onto the ramp in the Twin Cities and into a memory they'll carry for life.
BRONZE — $5,000 • Last Mile to Victory
Send them off with pride. Once on the ground, the championship experience continues ensuring that all the athletes are celebrated and secured point to point.
SUPPORTER — $1,000 • Stand with the Team
Show your support in a meaningful way. Fuel the essentials from nourishing snacks to celebratory swag that keeps focus sharp and spirits high.
In-Kind Donations That Make the Airlift Possible
In‑kind donations play a vital role in supporting the Special Olympics Airlift. These contributions help offset essential costs and provide the operational resources needed to plan, coordinate and support participating delegations throughout the event.
Below are a few examples of high‑priority in‑kind donation needs. By supporting these areas, donors help strengthen the Airlift experience and ensure athletes, coaches and volunteers have what they need to focus on what matters most—competition, connection and pride. Every in‑kind contribution helps turn generosity into real, measurable impact.
Examples
Refreshments
Baggage racks
DJ service
Swag
Traffic cones
Volunteer t-shirts
Interested in making an in‑kind donation? Please contact Airlift@txtav.com
Donating to Special Olympics, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, for the Special Olympics Airlift can have a profound impact on the lives of the athletes participating in the games. By contributing, you are enabling the organization to transport athletes, coaches, and volunteers to Special Olympics Games, promoting empowerment and acceptance. This donation not only supports the Special Olympics mission but also offers you potential tax benefits, as the value of the donation may be deductible. Your contribution can make a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of athletes while also showcasing your commitment to giving back to the community. The Special Olympics Airlift is a unique and valuable program that relies on the generosity of donors like you to continue providing opportunities for athletes to participate in life‑changing events.
Textron Aviation does not provide legal or tax advice; please contact your advisor about any potential tax benefits of participating in the Special Olympics Airlift.