Special Olympics New Mexico announced today that it received a $17,000 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM) through its Healthy Kids, Healthy Families® initiative. These funds will allow SONM to expand its ProjectUNIFY programs, which provide students inclusive sports opportunities at their schools.

"We're proud to give our support to Special Olympics New Mexico's Young Athletes and ProjectUNIFY programs as a Healthy Kids, Healthy Families partner," said Janice Torrez, Divisional Vice President of External Affairs for BCBSNM. "Through its work, we expect to see measurable improvement in children's health by creating opportunities for children with intellectual disabilities to be active during the school day, while also building leadership skills for their non-disabled peers."

Special Olympics New Mexico's ProjectUNIFY and Young Athletes programs provide students with and without intellectual disabilities opportunities to participate in sports activities alongside one another during the school day.

"Evidence of a win-win partnership is shown by its tenure, growth, and impact on people," stated SONM Executive Director Randy Mascorella. "BCBSNM's commitment to Special Olympics New Mexico's ProjectUNIFY and Young Athletes initiatives has not only stood the test of time, but it has helped to change attitudes about people challenged with disabilities through inclusive sports.  There is no doubt that schools who have embraced this program are now more welcoming and able to celebrate all students for their unique value and accomplishments."