Who We Are
Special Olympics Alaska exists to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities — fostering acceptance, inclusion, and joy across our great state.
Our Mission
Special Olympics Alaska exists to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. We provide continuing opportunities for athletes to develop physical fitness, to demonstrate courage, to experience joy and to participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
The Special Olympics mission remains as vital today as it did when the movement was founded in 1968. Special Olympics strives to create a better world by fostering the acceptance and inclusion of all people.
Sport is our Passion
We believe in the transformative power of sport to change lives and build confidence.
Health is our Commitment
We champion healthy lifestyles and inclusive health programs for all our athletes.
Community is our Focus
We build strong, inclusive communities across all 15 Alaska program regions.
Excellence is our Goal
We strive for excellence in everything we do — on and off the field of play.
Our Staff
Ayesha Abdul-Jillil
Office Assistant
Matthew Maillelle
Facilities Assistant
Charlotte Mulcahy
Administrative Assistant
Board Officers
Tony French
Northern Waste
Michael Schmidt
GCI
Kyle Smith
Eklutna, Inc.
Jason Kohler
Anchorage Fire Department
Board Directors
Our board of directors represents a wide range of Alaska industries, government, and athlete voices — guiding Special Olympics Alaska's strategic direction.
- Tony April – Alaska State Troopers
- Bradley Berberich – NANA Management Services
- Chelsea Burke – AK Gov. Council on Disabilities & Special Education
- Shannon Conley – Global Credit Union
- Kari Ellsworth – Northern Sports Production
- Jeff Garcia – Special Olympics Alaska Athlete
- Charlie Michael – Michael Family Holding Co.
- Kristine Morlock – Petro Star
- Christian Muntean – Vantage Consulting
- Ryan Muspratt – Petro Star
- Kena Pugh – Special Olympics Alaska Athlete
- Caitlin Sweeney – Pasta La Vista
- Jennifer Tungul – Matson Alaska
- Nicolle Welch – KeyBank Alaska
Jim Balamaci Training Center
One of only four Special Olympics programs in the United States with a dedicated sports facility — featuring an indoor track, full-size basketball court, conference room, and locker rooms at 3200 Mountain View Dr, Anchorage.
Learn MoreJim Balamaci Memorial Fund
Jim Balamaci embodied the core values of Special Olympics Alaska and worked with us for almost 40 years. His impact on Alaskans is immeasurable — and his legacy will last generations.
Learn About the Fund