Building Communities

Special Olympics spreads compassion and acceptance in a way that can unite the world. Our goal is to awaken everyone -- and every community -- to each person’s common humanity. Understanding brings acceptance; acceptances bring peace. This vision of inclusion starts at the local level. It's expanding on a global scale.

Despite the rain, a small crowd turns out in Rwanda to watch two women athletes race down the track

Building Support. Despite the rain, spectators line up to see two young women race down a track in Rwanda.

Communities of Support

There are about 200 million people with intellectual disabilities around the world. Our goal is to reach out to every one of them – and their families as well.

Special Olympics does this through a wide range of trainings, competitions, health screenings and fund-raising events. We also create opportunities for families, community members, local leaders, businesses, law enforcement, celebrities, dignitaries and others to band together to change attitudes and support athletes.

Special Olympics creates communities of support everywhere it goes. We hold 50,000 competitions a year -- about 136 each day. Our Games and competitions bring together athletes, coaches, volunteers, supporters and leaders of the community.

Special Olympics has the support of governments worldwide. We have helped bring about policies to improve education, health care, and employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities all around the world. Some of our key program efforts to build communities include: Athlete Leadership Programs, Family Engagement, Healthy Athletes, Project UNIFY and Young Athletes.”


Connecting Us All

Special Olympics knows no boundaries. Without regard to gender, race, religion, economic or education level, Special Olympics has the ability to unite all walks of life.

This spirit of generosity, inclusion and volunteerism helps to connect the community as a whole. In this way, we will build a stronger, safer world.

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Help us reach more people with intellectual disabilities and bring them the power of sport to build confidence and good health.

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Get in touch with Special Olympics near you and see what you can do to help. It's fun and can be life-changing.

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

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Show Your Support

Coca-Cola has been a worldwide sponsor of Special Olympics for decades.
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Lions Club improves the vision of Special Olympics athletes worldwide.
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Mattel Corporation sponsors the Young Athletes program worldwide.
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Special Olympics Blog

A fair warning before you see “The Descendants”

If hearing the "R-word" used several times in a gratuitous joke within a movie is something that is going to ruin a night out for you, save your time and heartache and do not see “The Descendants.” read more »

Posted on 2011-11-30 by Ryan

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