Changing Society's Perception of Intellectual Disability and Thriving Through Sports

Established in the United States in 1968 by Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister of the late American President, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Special Olympics is the first organization dedicated to the development of children and adults with intellectual disabilities through sports. Special Olympics is founded on the belief that individuals with intellectual disabilities can, with proper instruction and ongoing encouragement, learn to actively participate in individual and team sports adapted to their needs.

S.O. provides athletes with the opportunity to develop their skills and showcase their talents, experiencing joy through participation in various sports training and competition programs.

These programs aim to effect positive change in the lives of athletes, enabling them to integrate into social life and prepare them to assume leadership and responsibility roles within the program, as volunteers, coaches, assistant referees, or spokespersons.

Special Olympics International is present in 7 regions:

With a network in 172 countries, Special Olympics brings together more than 5 million athletes. The organization is recognized by the IOC (International Olympic Committee) and hosts the World Summer Games and the World Winter Games every four years.
The spirit of competition, courage, sharing, and joy embodies universal values that transcend all barriers of geography, nationality, culture, philosophy, religion, gender, age, and race.
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