Stories

Jolein's feet burned as they struck the pavement. She'd lost count of the number of steps she'd taken, as all that repeated in her mind was 'the cycling is done, it’s almost over – just a bit of running left, and my coach will be waiting proudly at the finish line.'

Shane Yan Wen Yu has learned that football is more than just a game, it’s a source of identity, purpose, and growth.

South Africa Broadcast Corporation covered the innovative collaboration between Basketball Africa League and Special Olympics where the League hosted a Unified match up during a quarter of one of a BAL game. The following is an excerpt from the article titled BAL and Special Olympics showcase power of inclusive sport in SA:

Spotlight PA recognized Loretta Claiborne as a Local Hero for her lifetime of work and accomplishments with Special Olympics. The following is an excerpt from the article titled PA Local Heroes: The champion athlete advocating for people with disabilities:

Hosted by Special Olympics North America athlete reporter RJ Nealon, this episode of Inclusion Revolution Radio features guest Dr. Kara Ayers, parent advisor and co-researcher for the Disabled Parenting Project. Part of the National Research Center for Parents with Disabilities, the Disabled Parenting Project was developed as an online community to foster connection and interaction among parents and prospective parents with disabilities.

The Special Olympics community is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Frank Hayden, a pioneering figure whose contributions to the world of sports and disability advocacy have had a profound impact on generations of athletes and families. Dr. Hayden passed away at the age of 96, leaving a legacy that has transformed countless lives. 

Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, was the recipient of the 2026 Laetare Medal at University of Notre Dame’s 181st University Commencement Ceremony on May 17, 2026.

Inside Victoria Fertitta Middle School, celebration isn’t just filling the gym—it’s filling every corner of the campus. After years of intentional work to ensure every student feels seen, invited, and valued, the school is marking a milestone: national recognition for inclusion. The school will be recognized by ESPN and Special Olympics North America as a National Banner school. National Banner status is one of the highest honors a school can earn through Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools®—recognizing campuses where inclusion isn’t occasional but embedded in daily culture.

After the passing of his twin brother and father, Special Olympics Philippines athlete Kim Edwards (Edward), and his mother Jacquelyn, faced immense grief.

Fansided recently covered the Special Olympics Australia women’s basketball team’s participation in the inaugural Special Olympics Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cupin Puerto Rico. The following is an excerpt from thearticle titled How One Family Is Changing Basketball in Australia with Unified Sports.

Special Olympics and TME partner up to expand Unified sports across Europe and Eurasia through December 2027.

At Special Olympics, athletes are at the core of our leadership. Their voice and example guide the movement in every way. That’s why we are thrilled to announce Loretta Claiborne as our new Senior Advisor to the CEO, Athlete Experience.