Recognizing Our Leadership Award Winners
At Special Olympics Florida, our mission is built on a simple but powerful idea: creating a world where every single athlete has the opportunity to thrive. While our athletes inspire us daily, we are surrounded by an incredible community of champions who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make it all possible.
Today, we are thrilled to announce the 2026 Leadership Award Winners. These extraordinary individuals, families, and organizations embody the true spirit of dedication, leadership, and joy. Please join us in celebrating our phenomenal honorees.
Eunice Kennedy Shriver Award: The American Legion
Named after the founder of Special Olympics, this award goes to a partner who genuinely believes in the limitless potential of our athletes. As one of our longest-standing allies, the American Legion has hit an incredible milestone, contributing over $1.75 million cumulatively to our mission! From volunteering at state games to freezing for a cause at the Polar Plunge, their members show up with unmatched heart and service.
Marilyn Grigsby Award: The St. Joe's Community Foundation
A powerhouse of support in our Northwest Region, this foundation has invested $150,000 —including $40,000 for the third year in a row—directly into local sports programming! Their incredible board and staff don’t just give financially; they are right there with us in the Bay and Walton communities, finding coaches, securing top-tier venue partners, and volunteering their time.
Kathy Graybeal Family of the Year: The Fahr Family
Led by Holly Fahr—one of our most trusted Heads of Delegation—the entire Fahr family is a wonderful example of unconditional giving. Over the last five years, Holly has coached and championed athletes across Santa Rosa County, and now her children are stepping up as coaches too! Together, they have brought everything from volleyball and softball to golf and basketball to our athletes.
Media Organization of the Year: WCTV
For decades, WCTV has been a vocal storyteller for Special Olympics Florida across the Big Bend region. They are always finding news to share, whether they are capturing the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run, spotlighting athletes advancing to the USA Games, or encouraging viewers to step up and volunteer. They don’t just report the news; they help build community inclusion.
Bill Crutchfield Award: Bob Heaton
Bob has been the ultimate dependable teammate in our West Coast Region for more than 25 years. He brings enthusiasm to every single sports competition and Healthy Athletes screening he touches. Bob is well known for bringing his friends and family along to build our community, and he never hesitates to pull double duty behind the scenes to make sure our athletes have a fun, welcoming experience.
Unified Partner of the Year: Tyler Montgomery
Tyler embodies what Unified Sports is all about: authentic connection and true friendship. During his four years at the University of Florida, Tyler played alongside our athletes in track, swimming, volleyball, and softball. As Vice President of the UF College Club, he did everything from coordinating rides to helping athletes step into official leadership roles, creating a genuine sense of belonging wherever he went.
Congratulations to all our award winners! Your passion keeps our mission moving forward every single day.