The aim of the Special Olympics IHLGiS project, which is being implemented in schools across Greece, Estonia, Poland and the city of Berlin, Germany, is to ensure that students with and without intellectual disabilities can adopt healthier habits. It focuses on nutrition, hydration, health-enhancing physical activities, mental health and health literacy, as well as developing a sense of inclusion and mutual respect.
One compelling success story is that of Dmitri Vӓrno, a 9-year-old student and Special Olympics athlete from Estonia. Dmitri used to be reserved and struggled to connect with his peers. However, through the inclusive activities and supportive environment fostered by Special Olympics Estonia and the IHLGiS project, not only has he adopted a much healthier daily routine, but has become more outgoing and developed meaningful friendships, particularly with his school mate, Mia-Liise.
“I didn’t know Mia-Liise before but now we have become good friends,” noted Dmitri.
“He has made a lot of new friends also with children without intellectual disabilities,” added his mother, Oivi Olle. “Dmitri has become stronger, smarter and more independent through this project.”
“I know what is healthy food and I know now what is unhealthy food,” concluded Dmitri.
“Educating children about healthy nutrition and health-enhancing physical activity from a young age is essential for establishing lifelong habits that promote health and prevent disease. With this project we are also working with schools to create a learning environment that promotes healthy lifestyle and mental wellbeing for children with and without intellectual disabilities to socialize and learn how they can actively improve their lives every day.”
Special Olympics Berlin, Special Olympics Hellas, Special Olympics Estonia and Special Olympics Poland have been working on the project tirelessly for the past 3 years, rallying local schools and professionals to the mission and the impact is already tangible.
Through a newly established network of committed schools and the recruitment and training of dedicated volunteers, the project has been able to expand its reach and enhance its impact. Since the project began, over 2,800 students with and without intellectual disabilities have been enjoying IHLGiS activities across all four project sites, and over 150 schools have implemented the project, far exceeding the established goal of involving 100 institutes before the project concluded. By engaging more people, IHLGiS ensures that the awareness and practices surrounding healthy living and inclusivity in and around schools continue to thrive.
“This collaborative effort has laid the foundation for a lasting legacy,” concluded Bjoern Koehler.
“A legacy we hope will continue to improve nutrition habits and promote well-being for students of all abilities, long after the project has concluded.”
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
