BY: USA GAMES CORRESPONDENT, MIKE GASTINEAU

The Coca-Cola Company has been with Special Olympics from the very beginning.

In 1968, the leaders of Coca-Cola had the vision and foresight to become a founding partner of Special Olympics when the movement was in its infancy. Now, nearly 50 years later, The Coca-Cola Company remains committed to helping advance a mission of acceptance and inclusion that began with the shining idea of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who founded Special Olympics in 1968.

During their nearly 50-year relationship with Special Olympics, The Coca-Cola Company has maintained a deep commitment to the organization and has provided more than $190 million in support of its programs through product, equipment, donations, and marketing support.