In January 2021 GEICO announced its continued commitment to the Inclusion Revolution and on-going work of Special Olympics Virginia. The GEICO Philanthropic Foundation donated $75,000 to help Special Olympics Virginia provide free, life-changing programs to athletes of all abilities across the state.
“GEICO and SOVA have a longtime partnership that means so much to our associates,” said Regional Vice President Scott Markel, who also serves on the SOVA Board. “For more than two decades, we have been inspired by the athletes and their families, as well as the focus on building an inclusive community that benefits all of us throughout Virginia.”
This partnership is led by GEICO’s Virginia-based offices in Fredericksburg and Virginia Beach. In addition to financial support, GEICO associates are heavily involved in employee engagement activities throughout the year. Despite the Polar Plunge going virtual this year, GEICO continued to participate by creating a fundraising team and spreading awareness amongst employees.
GEICO associates are always eager to volunteer at Special Olympics Virginia’s state competitions, including Basketball and Fall Champs, and help create exciting Opening Ceremonies. With the shift to virtual programming, GEICO continues to engage with athletes through the Fitness Combine, participating alongside our athletes (virtually) and cheering them on from their homes!
"As we celebrate our Special Olympics athletes, our program and our loyal partners, we are proud that GEICO is ALWAYS by our side,” said Rick Jeffrey, president of Special Olympics Virginia. “Our Special Olympics athletes knew social distance and isolation way before the pandemic taught it to all of us. Our athletes were able to find a community that values them. That community is Special Olympics; a community which GEICO has helped nurture and grow. Whether its volunteer engagement, Board service or financial support, no one does it like GEICO. GEICO ROCKS!!
After 26 years of partnering with GEICO, we know how committed they are to their communities. We are particularly grateful that they continue to focus on the Special Olympics community and promoting the Inclusion Revolution in Virginia.