Special Olympics: Who We Are

Who We Are

Special Olympics is a global movement of people creating a new world of inclusion and community, where every single person is accepted and welcomed, regardless of ability or disability. We are helping to make the world a better, healthier and more joyful place -- one athlete, one volunteer, one family member at a time.

The People of Special Olympics

Words can take you far, but seeing the faces of the people of Special Olympics takes you to their world. Take a tour of the people of Special Olympics in a series of grand photos: SEE IT

Our Athletes

Athletes are the heart of Special Olympics. Our athletes are children and adults with intellectual disabilities from all around the world. They are finding success, joy and friendship as part of our global community. They're also having lots of fun! LEARN MORE

Our Volunteers

Our volunteers believe that sports has the power to create joy and unity in society. They know this because they've seen it happen again and again. They are coaches and trainers, officials, event organizers, fundraisers and managers. They are also unified partners -- playing alongside athletes with intellectual disabilities -- or fans cheering in the stands. LEARN MORE

Our Coaches

Special Olympics coaches are role models and character builders. They teach the skills and spirit that define a true athlete. Every day and in every way, they help empower our athletes through quality sports training and competitions. Our coaches inspire our athletes; in turn, they are inspired as they witness the transformative power of sports. LEARN MORE

Our Families

Families give our athletes the kind of love, support and encouragement that no one else can. Special Olympics is a support network that brings families together in a caring, positive way. Our growing family support network is also a successful force for acceptance and inclusion in communities all around the world. LEARN MORE

Our Founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was a pioneer in the global struggle for rights and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities. Eunice Kennedy Shriver believed in justice. But she saw little justice in the way people with intellectual disabilities were treated in the 1950s and 1960s -- and she decided to make a difference. Her revolutionary vision and programs changed the world. LEARN MORE

About Special Olympics in North America

Your Donation Matters

Special Olympics transforms athletes’ lives through the joy of sport. Help us make a difference.

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Volunteer Near You

Volunteering with Special Olympics is fun and very rewarding, for both the athlete and the volunteer!

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Find events near you and learn about volunteer opportunities at one of our 220 worldwide locations.

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Show Your Support

Help with Special Olympics financial services products.
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Coca-Cola has been a worldwide sponsor of Special Olympics for decades.
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The Procter & Gamble Company has supported the movement for more than 28 years.
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Mattel Corporation sponsors the Young Athletes program worldwide.
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Special Olympics Blog

Rise Up Revolutionaries!

And today, I watched this video by Stu Chaifetz about teachers and adults who bullied Akian, a ten year old with autism in Cherry Hill New Jersey. It is a tale of fear and rage, as heartbreaking as it is infuriating. It is a call to all of us to rise up again, to demand change in Cherry Hill, to ask for an accounting from those who were abusive. Our own young leaders in Special Olympics Project Unify will understand the horrors of this video perhaps better than anyone. In a special way, I ask their leadership now.read more »

Posted on 2012-04-26 by Tim

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