For over two decades, Safilo Group – one of the eyewear industry’s key players in the design, manufacturing and distribution of prescription frames, sunglasses, outdoor eyewear, goggles, and helmets – and Special Olympics have been changing lives, one pair of glasses at a time. Now, that mission continues.
The two organizations celebrated the renewal of their long-standing partnership through to 2027 at the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, on 8th March 2025. This commitment underscores a shared dedication to inclusive health and vision care for athletes with intellectual disabilities worldwide that has stood strong for more than 22 years – and counting. During this period Special Olympics athletes from over the world have received prescription frames and sunglasses provided by Safilo through the Special Olympics Lions Clubs International Foundation Opening Eyes® program. Safilo employees have also been volunteers at Opening Eyes events, where athletes receive essential eye examinations, prescription eyewear, and referrals for follow-up care.
“At Safilo, we believe that clear vision is a fundamental right, not a privilege. For over 20 years, our partnership with Special Olympics has allowed us to bring not just eyewear, but dignity, confidence, and opportunity to thousands of athletes worldwide” said Angelo Trocchia, CEO of Safilo Group. “This renewed commitment reaffirms our dedication to inclusion, accessibility, and eye health—ensuring that every athlete has the vision care they need to excel, both in competitions and in daily life. We are proud to continue this journey and to stand alongside Special Olympics in their mission of empowerment. This commitment is part of Safilo’s purpose-led strategy based on three sustainability pillars: planet, product, and people”.
