December 16, 2024
Helping to build and support inclusive communities
At the Special Olympics Southern California Fall Games, Kaiser Permanente was recognized for promoting health and wellness for people with intellectual disabilities.
Nolan Chang, MD, accepts the Local Program Healthy Communities Golisano Award on behalf of Kaiser Permanente.
In the heart of Southern California, a heartwarming story unfolds each year — one of resilience, determination, and unwavering support. People with intellectual disabilities — one of the largest and most medically underserved populations — find belonging through Special Olympics Southern California, where they can compete in sports.
Kaiser Permanente medical volunteers run to provide medical care to an injured athlete.
Throughout the year, Kaiser Permanente physicians and employees provide athletes with medical exams and sideline care. For Special Olympics Southern California, medical support is critical to promoting safety and ensuring athletes are cleared to compete. Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping athletes safely stay in the game, maintain their fitness, and achieve their goals. As each season draws to a close with the championship games, Kaiser Permanente medical volunteers and employees are there, cheering on the athletes they have supported.
“We are committed to providing the best possible care for these incredible athletes and ensuring they have the support they need to succeed both on and off the field,” said Nolan Chang, MD, regional medical director of business management for Southern California Permanente Medical Group and a board member for Special Olympics Southern California. “It’s an honor to be part of these athletes' journeys, from providing medical exams to cheering them on at championships. We are proud to be part of the Special Olympics community and to see the joy and pride on the athletes' faces as they achieve their goals.”
For Kaiser Permanente, the Fall Games also brought another honor. We received the Local Program Healthy Communities Golisano Award, the highest honor for health partners of Special Olympics Southern California. This award recognizes significant contributions to creating equal access to health, fitness, and wellness for people with intellectual disabilities.
Celebration of resilience and determination
The Fall Games Championships in Fountain Valley, California, is the annual close to the fall sports season — where athletes compete in golf, soccer, softball, and volleyball — and a celebration of resilience. At the 2024 championships, more than 150 Kaiser Permanente physicians and employees volunteered in various capacities, providing medical education and care, welcoming guests to events, and cheering on over 900 athletes from the sidelines, demonstrating Kaiser Permanente’s dedication to fostering inclusive communities.
Among the many teams that Kaiser Permanente cheered on was the Whittier Dirty Dawgs. After months of rigorous training, the Dawgs’ softball team secured a silver medal in its final match, showcasing exceptional skill and teamwork. The team’s success was a testament to its dedication as well as its coaches' support.
- Joe Valliere
- Andrea Majam
- Noelle Baldauf
Honored for transforming health and fitness
As the official health partner of Special Olympics Southern California, Kaiser Permanente’s mission is to support the health and safety of the Dawgs and all athletes, helping them shine on game day. Since 2018, the organization has annually provided medical support to more than 1,200 athletes in safe and accessible environments.
“Ensuring our athletes receive positive and inclusive care experiences is a top priority for us,” said Jeff Van Fossen, assistant vice president of sports and programs for Special Olympics Southern California. “Our partnership with Kaiser Permanente is part of our commitment to transforming the care experience for people with intellectual disabilities, so they can thrive in all aspects of their lives.”
Join Kaiser Permanente as a volunteer with Special Olympics Southern California and be part of a community that supports and uplifts incredible athletes.
