For the last 50 years, Special Olympics Minnesota has championed inclusion by promoting social change for people with intellectual disabilities in athletic, health, and school programs. Their work has touched lives across the North Star State, making Minnesota a more equitable and inclusive place in meaningful ways.

To celebrate these phenomenal Special Olympics athletes and their families, Red Baron Pizza and Minnesota United have teamed up to honor these athletes and family members as the Red Baron Family of the Game. Together we are able to share something awesome and champion change in our communities. Check out some of our past honorees' stories below.

Drew Hennen and Family

Drew has been a Special Olympics Athlete since 2014. He currently plays Soccer, Floor Hockey, Snowshoeing, Basketball, Track & Field, Swimming, Golf, Bocce’ Ball and Bowling for the Savage-Prior Lake Lakers – Special Olympics Delegation along with Ice Hockey for the MN Wild Special Hockey team. This April he will be going to Salt Lake City, UT with Special Olympics TEAM USA to participate in the Team Trials, preparing to compete in the Special Olympic World Games for Snowshoeing in 2025. Special Olympics is a family affair where the entire family has had a chance to become a either a unified partner with Drew, a coach or has joined him in participating in the Polar Plunge each year.

Date Honored: March 16, 2024

Jeff and Emily Garness and Family

Jeff and Emily have been involved with Special Olympics MN for over 10 years. What started off as a random volunteer opportunity has turned into a lifetime passion. Both Jeff and Emily have competed as Unified Partners with local delegations and Jeff was even chosen to play as a Unified Partner for the MN United Team in 2019! Special Olympics has become a family affair where Jeff, Emily, Greta and George continue volunteer and spread inclusion in their community.

Date Honored: April 6, 2024