Our athletes find joy, confidence, and fulfillment -- on the playing field and in life. They inspire people in their community Special Olympics is an international organization that changes lives by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance for all, and fostering communities of understanding and respect worldwide. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriv
er, the Special Olympics movement has grown to include nearly 3.1 million athletes in 228 programs in 175 countries, providing year-round sports training, athletic competition, and other related programs, including Special Olympics Healthy Athletes™. Special Olympics provides people with intellectual disabilities continuing opportunities in a variety of Olympic-type sports so that they may realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy and friendship.
