Meet Athlete Ambassador, Mila Boudreau | Empire Family of Brands Fundraising Campaign 2025

June 06, 2025

Mila first joined Special Olympics when she was just 3 years old, after her pediatric physiotherapist suggested the Active Start program. It didn’t take long for her parents to see just how empowering the experience could be. One of Mila’s earliest memories was attending a Special Olympics event at the University of Moncton—being surrounded by athletes of all abilities gave her family hope and showed them what was possible.

Mila Boudreau, Special Olympics New Brunswick Athlete

Young woman in green shirt and black pants holding a basketball

“Mila is a social butterfly since joining Special Olympics… this summer I heard her say to another athlete ‘Hi my name is Mila, what’s your name?’ I was just in awe of her. We celebrate inclusion and diversity because of Special Olympics… it brings all special athletes together. Just like a big family!” - Mila's mother, Chantal

Now, Mila is thriving. Her proudest moment came this past summer when she crossed the finish line first at a track practice. “She was so proud of herself,” says her parents, Chantal and Mathieu. “It made her feel like she could accomplish anything.” But the wins aren’t just on the track—Mila has also grown socially and emotionally. From developing physical skills to confidently introducing herself to other athletes, Special Olympics has helped her flourish.

Mila also loves getting creative in the kitchen. She and her family make cashew butter energy bites together using ingredients they find at their local Sobeys in Shediac, guided by helpful tips from Sobeys’ Nutrition Corner. Mila’s other favourite snacks include gluten-free pretzels, all kinds of fruit, and a scoop of vanilla coconut-based ice cream.

To the Empire customers donating at checkout, Mila shares a heartfelt message:

“Thank you so much. Your support is making such a difference in the lives of Special Olympics athletes.”

And from her parents: “You never know—it could be your child, niece, nephew, or grandchild who benefits from that donation. Special Olympics helps our kids dream bigger, try harder, and feel like they belong. It’s changed Mila’s life—and ours—for the better.”

For Mila, being part of Special Olympics means feeling empowered, making friends, and knowing she’s part of a community that truly sees her. As her mom puts it:

“It brings all special athletes together. Just like a big family.”

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