JYSK has donated $100,000 to Special Olympics Canada, part of its ongoing support of the sport
organization that
serves individuals with an intellectual disability. Since 2008, JYSK Canada has donated over $1 million
in
support of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
“JYSK has a long and proud tradition of partnering with Special Olympics in Canada and around the
globe,” said
JYSK Canada CEO Ludvik G. Kristjansson.
“While we continue to navigate an unprecedented challenge with the pandemic, people with intellectual
disabilities and their families face daily challenges most of us will never know or encounter. As an
organization, we have an opportunity to make a difference in their lives and we remain dedicated to
supporting
individuals with intellectual disabilities through sport.”
JYSK Canada has been a member of the Special Olympics Canada community since 2006, when it became a
national
partner. The $100k donation, which has been an annual tradition for JYSK Canada since 2008, will go
towards
supporting 49,600 athletes with an intellectual disability across Canada.
“We are so grateful that we can count on long-time national partners like JYSK even during this
challenging
time,” said Sharon Bollenbach, Special Olympics Canada CEO.
“Their generous donation helps Special Olympics continue its mission of enriching the lives of Canadians
with an
intellectual disability through sport, by supporting our efforts to keep athletes connected and to being
ready
to re-start our community programs as soon as it is safe to do so.”
About Special Olympics Canada
The Canadian program of this global movement is dedicated to enriching the lives of Canadians with an
intellectual disability through the transformative power and joy of sport. Operating out of sport clubs
in 12
Provincial and Territorial Chapters, this grassroots movement reaches beyond the sphere of sport to
empower
individuals, change attitudes and build communities. From two-year-olds to mature adults, more than
49,600
athletes with an intellectual disability are registered in Special Olympics year-round programs across
Canada.
They are supported by more than 21,000 volunteers, including more than 14,000 trained coaches.
For more information, visit
www.specialolympics.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @SpecialOCanada.
Did you know?
To provide additional support for Special Olympics Canada, JYSK introduced the Special Olympics Goose in
2017.
The plush toy’s design was inspired by the JYSK mascot and is a tribute to our organization’s humble
beginnings.