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For the second consecutive time, House of Raeford Farms proudly supported the Special Olympics USA Games by transporting six athletes, a coach, and a NC Special Olympics staff member from Raleigh, NC to the 2026 Games in Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN. Departing June 19 and returning June 27, our flight crew joined hundreds of volunteer pilots and aircraft participating in the world’s largest peacetime airlift — a powerful demonstration of aviation collaboration and community spirit.
Flying the company’s Beechcraft King Air 350, Director of Aviation Bruce Bullock reflected on the moment: “It is gratifying to see these athletes who have trained so hard finally realize their dream. For many of them, this was a flight of a lifetime.”
As a bonus, we were so excited when our House of Raeford passengers from North Carolina were gold medal winners in the Unified Small Team Level One cheerleading competition.
House of Raeford’s support for individuals with disabilities extends far beyond this event. Across its southeastern U.S. locations, the company contributes to Special Olympics programs by purchasing equipment, covering event expenses, and providing volunteers. In Louisiana, House of Raeford partners with MedCamps to help children and adults with chronic illnesses and disabilities experience life‑changing recreational and educational camps. The company also helps fund grants for local classrooms, ensuring teachers of exceptional children have the supplies they need.
The Special Olympics Airlift (SOA), organized by Textron Aviation — manufacturer of Beechcraft and Cessna aircraft — has transported nearly 10,000 athletes and coaches to the USA Games since 1987, creating a legacy of access and inclusion.
Special Olympics never charges athletes to participate. Admission, registration, training, and competition expenses are fully covered through donations, sponsorships, and fundraising. Travel, however, remains one of the largest costs for state programs sending athletes to the USA Games, making the Airlift an invaluable resource.
Held every four years, the USA Games bring together more than 3,000 competitors. Special Olympics provides year‑round training and competition in Olympic‑type sports for children and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities — offering opportunities to build fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and share their talents with teammates, families, and communities.
