Meet Athlete Ambassador, Gage Mechefske | Empire Family of Brands Fundraising Campaign 2026

For 14-year-old Gage Mechefske, staying active is simply part of who he is. 

The London, Ontario athlete spends his time bowling with Special Olympics Canada, playing basketball at school, snowboarding in the winter, horseback riding in the summer, and creating cooking videos to share with friends — another outlet for his love of healthy living, nutrition and staying active. 

Gage first joined Special Olympics through Active Start when he was four years old after his family heard about the inclusive sport programs through the Down syndrome community. Even as a young child, he immediately loved it and continued through Fundamentals programming until he was 12 years old before eventually transitioning to 5-pin bowling. 

Over the years, Special Olympics has helped foster his love of physical activity and given him the confidence to explore sports and activities both on and off the field of play. 

That spirit of encouragement and inclusion reflects the message behind this year’s Empire Family of Brands in-store fundraising campaign: “Every best is personal.” 

For Gage’s family, the phrase is a reminder that every accomplishment matters. 

“Everyone’s accomplishments are valuable.” 

Outside of sport, Gage’s creativity also shines in the kitchen. A self-described food enthusiast, he serves as a kitchen leader at school, helping teachers plan and organize the hot lunch program. 

“He loves working in the kitchen at home and school,” his parents say. 

Among his favourite healthy recipes are gluten- and dairy-free French toast casserole and ham-and-egg cups. 

Gage’s family says programs like Special Olympics are critical not only for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but for communities as a whole. 

“It is not only for the benefit of the athletes, but to show society that everyone has a right and need to be included, be physically fit, build confidence and have fun,” they say. 

That is why they hope Canadians will support Special Olympics athletes during this year’s Empire Family of Brands campaign. 

“Fundraising partners like Empire ensure the continuation of the valuable program that Special Olympics is,” they say. “To show the general public that sports activities for those with disabilities are needed and beneficial to all.” 

From June 11 to 21, customers visiting participating Empire Family of Brands stores across Canada can donate $2 at checkout to help support Special Olympics athletes like Gage — helping create more opportunities for children, youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience sport, confidence, friendship and community. 

For the Mechefske family, one of the most meaningful parts of their Special Olympics experience has been the people who make it all possible. 

“Our experience has been fantastic,” they share. “The volunteers are what make the activities amazing — their commitment and dedication. We still see the volunteers that Gage had when he first joined Active Start ten years ago!” 

And for families considering getting involved with Special Olympics, their message is simple: 

“Definitely do it. It is a great organization. The volunteers are awesome!”