July 16, 2025
More than just a game
Kaiser Permanente partners with Special Olympics of Southern California to advance health equity through the power of sport.
Robert Tuchler, MD, (left) provides care to keep champions like Tyler Parker (right) in the game.
At Kaiser Permanente, we believe everyone has the right to good health. That’s why we’re proud to work with Special Olympics Southern California, an organization that uses sports to empower individuals who have intellectual disabilities.
Our relationship started years ago and grew stronger in 2015, when we served as the official health partner for the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles. That year, more than 6,500 athletes from around the world came to compete, and over 700 Kaiser Permanente physicians and employees provided health checkups, treated injuries, and helped athletes stay safe.
Why we partner with Special Olympics
The energy of the athletes and the spirit of inclusion inspired us to get more involved. In 2018, we became the official health partner of Special Olympics Southern California. Since then, our physicians and employees have become a trusted presence at events like Summer Games, Fall Games, and regional competitions throughout the year.
“Kaiser Permanente partners with Special Olympics Southern California because we believe in the power of inclusion, resilience, and health for all,” said Michelle Gaskill-Hames, regional president of Kaiser Permanente in Southern California and Hawaii. “We’re proud to support these extraordinary athletes whose courage and dedication inspire us every day.”
At the 2025 Summer Games, more than 1,500 athletes came together to compete in track and field, swimming, basketball, bocce, and flag football.
Kaiser Permanente was there every step of the way. Our physicians and employees provided medical care and cheers to help athletes stay safe and feel ready to compete.
Celebrating 10 years of impact
The 2025 Summer Games came with special meaning. In the 10 years since the 2015 World Games, we’re reminded of the strength of our partnership.
Every year, we:
- Ensure more than 2,000 athletes can compete safely by providing medical support at events
- Deliver compassionate, high-quality care through more than 100 health screenings
- Lead health screenings with other medical institutions to help athletes with intellectual disabilities —an underserved group — get the care they need in a safe, welcoming space
- Promote inclusion in our communities by bringing together more than 200 Kaiser Permanente volunteers to support programs
A shared mission
“Our athletes gain more than medals — they gain confidence, independence, and lifelong skills,” said Kelly Pond, president and CEO of Special Olympics Southern California. “Kaiser Permanente’s support helps make that possible by ensuring our athletes are healthy and empowered to succeed.”
This shared commitment to inclusion and health equity is reflected not only in the partnership, but also in the way care is delivered, especially to populations that have historically faced barriers to access.
“Our partnership with SOSC is an incredible opportunity for us to provide the compassionate, respectful, and inclusive care that Kaiser Permanente is known for,” said Ramin Davidoff, MD, executive medical director of the Southern California Permanente Medical Group. “It is an honor to care for this special community and for our physicians to support the athletes as they pursue their Olympic dreams.”
Ten years after the 2015 World Games, the 2025 Summer Games showed how our commitment to inclusive care continues to grow stronger.
