With over 3,000 athletes set to compete, the Special Olympics remains one of the biggest sporting stages for specially-abled athletes. Next June marks the sixth edition of the Games, a movement that began in 2006 to empower those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With just eight months to go, athletes across the country are gearing up for the experience of a lifetime. And, guess what? This holiday season, the nation is ready to celebrate its spirit.

The Mall of America is all set to celebrate the event with a pop-up store dedicated entirely to the upcoming Summer Special Olympics USA Games merchandise lineup. According to officials, the store will showcase an exciting range of items, from branded gear to the exclusive UNRL x 2026 USA Games collection, along with unique giftables and limited-edition holiday merchandise. The visitors might also look forward to meeting selected special Olympians as well as the mascot of the upcoming games, Champ, the beloved golden retriever therapy dog.

Talking about the collaboration, the CEO of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, Christy Sovereign, said, “We’re thrilled to unveil a dedicated space where guests can not only shop these fun items, but make meaningful connections and learn more about the Special Olympics movement. We hope this store will give visitors the chance to meet other volunteers, advocates, partners, and athletes – all united by the power of inclusion – and be inspired to get involved in this life-changing event.”

What’s in the store, you ask? As per the officials, merchandise will range from bags, t-shirts, hoodies, hats, drinkware, quarter-zips, snapbacks, and much more. Speaking to the media, the Vice President, Head of Leasing at Mall of America, said, “At Mall of America, we’re always seeking new ways to create memorable experiences for our guests.”

She further added, “We’re honored to welcome the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games store to MOA, where shopping meets purpose. This retail experience goes beyond shopping; it’s a chance to be inspired by the dedication, passion, and spirit that unite everyone who makes the Games possible.” 

Now, it’s all down to the athletes to perform at a level where winners of the USA Games will be entered into a draw, with a select few chosen at random for a chance to advance to the Special Olympics World Games. Interestingly, this time, the Bank of America has come forward with a substantial grant.

Bank of America announced a one-year grant for the Summer Special Olympics

Bank of America (BOFA) has committed a powerful a massive five million dollar investment to the Special Olympics International. The investment is a major push to elevate opportunities for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

The grant is expected to help fuel programs that will prepare the athletes to take leadership roles in the future. In addition to that, their partnership is expected to help the athletes live a better life.

“Bank of America’s support comes at a crucial time as we work to expand equitable access to leadership opportunities for Special Olympics athletes. They recognize that Special Olympics athletes are among the most impactful voices for inclusion. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring that people with intellectual disabilities are meaningfully included in all conversations and have the platform to lead,” said the CEO of Special Olympics, Mary Davis.

The CEO of the Special Olympics further explained that the $384.18 billion finance giant will also step up to be a Platinum Partner for the 2026 Special Olympics for the USA games, which is scheduled to take place from June 20-26 in Minneapolis. Their partnership has opened a new chapter in the Special Olympics’ astounding 19-year-old journey. Now, it remains to be seen how far they can go.