Meet Athlete Ambassador, Kolt Brown | Empire Family of Brands Fundraising Campaign 2025

June 06, 2025

If you ask Kolt Brown what he loves most about Special Olympics, he’ll tell you it’s the people—the kind coaches, the supportive friends, and the safe, fun space where everyone belongs. Kolt, an 11-year-old basketball player from Airdrie, Alberta, dreams of making it to the NBA one day, just like his older sister who played on her high school team. For now, he’s perfecting his warmups, playing friendly games, and encouraging his teammates every step of the way.

Kolt Brown, Special Olympics Alberta Athlete

Young man in a black shirt bouncing a basketball

"Watching him participate in Special Olympics the first time, I was so overwhelmed with happiness that I couldn't stop crying. I also didn’t realize that I needed to be around other parents that had kids with differences until I was there with other parents. We have tried other sports groups and nothing compares to the love and support and encouragement we receive from everyone at Special Olympics.” - Kolt's mother, April

Kolt first joined Special Olympics three years ago after his mom, April, struggled to find an inclusive basketball program that nurtured both his skills and self-esteem. That all changed when a friend suggested Special Olympics. From their very first summer party, the experience was nothing short of life-changing—for Kolt and their whole family. “I was so overwhelmed with happiness I couldn’t stop crying,” April remembers. “There was no judgment—just pure joy.”

Since then, Kolt has thrived. He recently received a “Never Give Up” award at the team’s summer BBQ and was even featured in the local newspaper—a proud moment that reflected his hard work, spirit, and love for his team.

He’s also using Sobeys’ Nutrition Corner to fuel up with healthy snacks—his favourite is grilled cheese with tomato and pesto! And when it comes to giving back, Kolt is already a role model in his community, volunteering at a local seniors’ centre and spreading kindness wherever he goes.

To all the Empire Family of Brands customers donating at checkout, Kolt says:

“Thank you for giving donations to Special Olympics. I am very thankful for you.”

And from his mom: “We finally feel like we belong—and that is something we’ll never take for granted.”

You can support Special Olympics athletes like Oliver by making a donation this June 12-22 at participating Empire Family of Brands stores including: Sobeys, Safeway, Ontario Foodland, Atlantic Foodland and participating CO-OPs, IGA West, Thrifty Foods, Lawtons Drugs and Needs Convenience stores.

Learn more: www.specialolympics.ca/Empire