Building community through sport

On a warm September evening in Washington, D.C., Audi Field became more than just a stadium—it transformed into a vibrant celebration of belonging, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Guidehouse volunteers gathered to provide logistical and moral support to the young athletes participating in D.C. United’s Special Olympics Unified Match.

With pom-poms waving and handmade signs held high, volunteers lined up shoulder to shoulder to form a lively cheer tunnel that greeted each athlete with heartfelt encouragement. The energy was electric, the smiles contagious, and the message clear: Every player mattered.

An evening of unity and resilience

The match brought together athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities and their Unified partners from D.C. and Philadelphia for a night of spirited competition. For many players, stepping onto a professional pitch was a dream come true and became even more special as a sea of family members, fans, and volunteers rallied behind them.

From the first whistle to the last, the field came alive with camaraderie. Players shared laughs, exchanged high-fives, and congratulated team members and opponents alike, forging genuine friendships with each huddle and handshake.

One of the evening’s most moving highlights came during the medal ceremony when the D.C. United Special Olympics Unified coaches called each player up by name to recognize them. Their faces lit up with pride as they were celebrated not just for their performance, but for who they are and the team spirit they embodied.

Showing up, side by side

Team Guidehouse showed up in full force, forming one of the largest volunteer groups at the event. We got involved in every detail—from laying out uniforms and prepping water stations to crafting colorful posters and energizing the crowd.

Though many of them met for the first time, the experience quickly turned strangers into teammates. Sitting together on the concourse, they bonded over poster-making, encouraged each other’s creativity, and shared personal stories. Some spoke about supporting loved ones with disabilities, recalling how deeply meaningful the game was for them.

The impact of the event extended far beyond the pitch. Volunteering wasn’t just a one-time experience for many of the participants, but rather a powerful reminder of the importance of community and showing up for one another.

“Events like this are a great way to get our name and brand out there, but more importantly, they allow us to touch lives and make a difference. And we get to do it alongside colleagues we may never have crossed paths with otherwise. That kind of connection stays with you.”

— Rick Fox, Guidehouse employee

Creating moments that matter

While the D.C. United Special Olympics Unified Match was the centerpiece of September’s volunteer efforts, the club’s Make-A-Wish game nights on September 27 and October 4 offered another opportunity to create lasting memories.

Make-A-Wish families were welcomed into the Guidehouse suite at Audi Field, where they received team gear. The children, many of whom play or watch soccer themselves, experienced the thrill of the matches from one of the best views in Audi Field and had the chance to meet a few of the D.C. United players.

Throughout the year, Guidehouse and D.C. United partner to offer impactful experiences for our communities—from honoring service members and Veterans at Military Appreciation Night to bringing families together at Family Field Day and beyond. Most recently, we joined forces with Giant to support federal workers during Thanksgiving, donating turkeys and helping pack meals to feed more than 8,000 people.

Whether supporting behind the scenes or cheering from the stands, we remain committed to building connections that strengthen communities and touch lives along the way.