In late March, Heart of LA proudly participated as a sponsor and supporter of the 2025 Loyola Marymount University (LMU) Special Games, a vibrant, two-day event dedicated to celebrating individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This cherished tradition, founded in 1977 by LMU students, has grown into a joyful gathering where community, connection, and compassion take center stage.
Held on LMU’s beautiful Westchester campus, the Special Games brought together approximately 170 athletes and an equal number of dedicated student and alumni volunteers. Each athlete was paired one-on-one with a volunteer coach for the day, forming personal bonds that often last far beyond the games themselves. The focus wasn’t on competition—it was about fun, friendship, and empowerment.
“This is the heart of LMU,” said Jacqueline Luevano, a Special Education Program Specialist for the Moreno Valley School District, and a proud LMU alumna. Jacqueline first volunteered at the Special Games over 30 years ago as a student. Now, in a full-circle moment, she returned to the 2025 Games not just as a supporter, but as a mother to a graduating LMU student who is following a similar path of service and leadership.
In a touching moment, Jacqueline recognized Freddie, the very athlete she was paired with decades ago. “I just saw him right there and I said, ‘That’s Freddie!’ He is a hoot! He’s the same person as way back when,” she shared with a smile.
Michael Engh, LMU Chancellor, reflected on the evolution of the event, noting how students took it upon themselves to revive the Games after a pause due to the pandemic. “When COVID hit, we had to take a little break,” he said. “The students who brought it back had never experienced the event before. They dug into archives, conducted interviews, and rebuilt it from the ground up. They raised the funds themselves—and everything is free for participants.”
Heart of LA is honored to be part of a tradition that continues to uplift, inspire, and connect communities through compassion and joy. We believe in the power of moments like these to shape futures—and we’re committed to helping them thrive.If you’d like to support the LMU Special Games, please visit lmu.edu to learn more.
