Special Olympics Prince George honours founder Dee Neukomm with Inaugural Spirit of Inclusion Award

As one of the founders of Special Olympics programming in Prince George more than 40 years ago, she has played a pivotal role in developing and sustaining opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities throughout the region. Her decades of volunteer service have helped shape an organization that has become an important part of the community while providing life-changing experiences for countless athletes and families.

Although four decades have passed since the program first took root in Prince George, Neukomm remains actively involved today, continuing to coach athletes with the same enthusiasm and commitment that defined her work when the organization was first established.

Those who know her say her impact extends well beyond sport. Through her encouragement, leadership and belief in the potential of every athlete, Neukomm has helped foster a culture where individuals feel valued, respected and empowered to achieve their goals.

The award’s name reflects qualities that organizers say Neukomm has demonstrated throughout her involvement with Special Olympics.

The Spirit of Inclusion Award was created to celebrate people who champion acceptance and ensure that athletes have opportunities to participate regardless of ability. Organizers say Neukomm’s contributions over the past four decades perfectly embody those principles.

Special Olympics Prince George Local Coordinator Peter Goudal said Neukomm’s influence can be seen throughout the organization and in the lives of the many athletes she has mentored over the years.

“Dee Neukomm has helped shape Special Olympics Prince George into the welcoming and inclusive community it is today,” Goudal said.

“For more than 40 years, she has led with kindness, dedication, and an unwavering belief in our athletes. She represents everything this award stands for, making her a truly deserving recipient of our very first Spirit of Inclusion Award.”

The presentation was one of the highlights of the organization’s 40th anniversary celebration, an event that brought together athletes, volunteers, coaches, families and supporters to celebrate four decades of achievements and community building.

The milestone anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on how far the local chapter has come since its early beginnings. What started as a grassroots effort to provide athletic opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities has grown into a year-round program offering a range of sports, health and leadership initiatives.

Throughout that growth, volunteers have remained the backbone of the organization, helping athletes develop skills, build confidence and create lasting friendships. Organizers said honouring Neukomm was also a way of recognizing the countless volunteers whose dedication has sustained the program over the years.

Special Olympics Prince George currently provides opportunities that extend well beyond competition. Athletes are encouraged to develop leadership abilities, improve their health and wellness, and become active participants in their communities.

The organization strives to create an environment where people with intellectual disabilities can reach their full potential while enjoying the benefits of teamwork, personal achievement and social connection.

For athletes and families, the program can be transformative. Participation in sport often leads to increased confidence, stronger social networks and a greater sense of belonging. The organization’s focus on inclusion also helps break down barriers and challenge misconceptions about intellectual disabilities.

That mission aligns closely with the values that have guided Neukomm throughout her years of service.

Whether coaching athletes, mentoring volunteers or supporting program development, she has consistently championed the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate and succeed.

As Special Olympics Prince George enters its fifth decade, organizers say the new Spirit of Inclusion Award will serve as a lasting reminder of those values and recognize others who follow Neukomm’s example in the years ahead.

For now, however, the spotlight remains on a volunteer whose commitment has left an enduring mark on the organization and the community it serves.

After more than 40 years of dedication, Dee Neukomm’s contributions continue to be felt across Special Olympics Prince George. The inaugural Spirit of Inclusion Award not only recognizes her remarkable service but also celebrates the lasting legacy she has built — one defined by inclusion, compassion and a belief that every athlete deserves the chance to thrive.

by CKPG News

Special Olympics Prince George honours founder Dee Neukomm with Inaugural Spirit of Inclusion Award

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