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Special Olympics is an international organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition. Special Olympics offers children and adults with intellectual disabilities year-round training and competition in 26 Olympic-type summer and winter sports. There is no charge to participate in Special Olympics.
Special Olympics currently serves more than 1 million persons with intellectual disabilities in more than 200 Programs in more than 150 countries. In 2000, Special Olympics made a bold commitment to reach 2 million athletes by the end of 2005, placing a renewed focus on building the movement's infrastructure and establishing tools to facilitate growth. An initial census of athlete participation conducted in that year established a baseline count of athletes worldwide.
At the end of 2002, the first annual incremental count was conducted, resulting in the 2002 Special Olympics Athlete Participation Report - the first "report card" of progress toward the goal of reaching 2 million athletes. One hundred percent of Special Olympics Programs reported athlete counts in 2002, compared to 74 percent in 2000. To achieve the 2005 goal, Special Olympics must recruit and train at least 793,345 athletes in the next two and a half years.
Children and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. They grow mentally, socially and spiritually and, through their activities, exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm, enjoy the rewards of friendship and ultimately discover not only new abilities and talents but "their voices" as well.
To get involved, contact your local Special Olympics Program. To locate a Program near you, use our Program Locator.
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