2025 Winner: Kailee Bowman

“Kailee breathes Special Olympics and strives to make everyone’s life better. She includes all athletes and believes every athlete has the ability to do anything they put their heart into,” her nominators say. 

Beyond being a Local Coordinator, Bowman also covers the Program Coordinator role and gives her time and talents as the Head Coach of figure skating. She’s served as a valued mission staff member at two Special Olympics Canada Games, two Special Olympics BC Games, and a BC Games.  

In her community and region, Bowman provides vital leadership and efforts in fundraising, volunteer recruitment and training, public relations, financial management, and more.  

“While Kailee’s plate may always be full, she never hesitates to take on more. No task is too trivial or small. She leads by example by always going above and beyond the ‘call of duty.’”   

She has supported her Local in the hosting of Healthy Athletes screenings, collaborated with the Greater Victoria Down Syndrome Society, and attends program sessions, fundraisers, and other ad hoc events. 

“Kailee engages with others professionally, appropriately, and in a kind manner. She is well liked by athletes, families, volunteers, and partners. Many athletes are eager to share their latest accomplishments with her, and volunteers look to her for guidance and camaraderie.”   

“Kailee’s dedication to recruiting volunteers, finding space for practice, and filling positions on the Local Committee are all testaments of what she will do to ensure programs are still running for the benefit of all athletes. When Kailee feels tired, she says, ‘I do it for the athletes!’” 

Special Olympics BC is proud to award Bowman the 2025 Athletic Achievement Award and congratulates all the 2025 award nominees for their hard work and achievements.