<?xml version="1.0" ?> <rss xmlns:xsd="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" version="2.0"><channel><title>All Stories</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/singlerssfeed.aspx?cid=109</link><description>All Stories</description><item><title>Barnabas Health to Welcome Families to 2014 Games</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Barnabas-Health-to-Welcome-Families-to-2014-Games.aspx</link><description>Barnabas Health Supporting Families of 2014 USA Games</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:10:41 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics Leaving Viewers Speechless</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Special-Olympics-Leaving-Viewers-Speechless.aspx</link><description>Susie Doyens remained practically mute for most of her childhood due to 
social pressure and anxiety. See how she literally shattered those fears
 with the confidence gained through Special Olympics.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:41:42 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>PSE&amp;G named Founding Partner of 2014 USA Games with $1M pledge</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/PSE-G-named-Founding-Partner-of-2014-USA-Games-with-$1M-pledge.aspx</link><description>PSE&amp;amp;G named Founding Partner of 2014 USA Games with $1M pledge</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>SONA Golf Invitational Tournament</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/sonagit/</link><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;font size="2" face="Arial" color="#333333"&gt;More than 200 golfers from throughout North America will compete in the 13th annual Special Olympics North America Golf Invitational Tournament, September 6-9, 2012 at the beautiful Wigwam Resort in Litchfield Park, Arizona.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;font size="2" face="Arial" color="#333333"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/font&gt;</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Sat, 10 Mar 2012 02:35:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Jason Wright's Hole in One</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Jason-Wright-s-Hole-in-One.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="border-spacing: 2px; "&gt;Every golfer dreams of making a hole-in-one: Special Olympics athlete Jason Wright now has three of them!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:02:09 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>2014 National Games will be in New Jersey</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/2014-National-Games-will-be-in-New-Jersey.aspx</link><description>New Jersey will be the site of the 2014 Special Olympics USA National Games, an event that will draw up to 80,000 athletes, coaches, family members and spectators to the state and which will leave behind a legacy of acceptance and respect for people with intellectual disabilities.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>David Egan: Finding His Voice</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/David-Egan--Finding-His-Voice.aspx</link><description>David Egan has always dreamed big. When he was a youngster, starting out as a Special Olympics swimmer, he dreamed of winning his races. As he grew, he looked to bigger goals –having a job and finding ways to change attitudes toward people with intellectual disabilities.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 18:22:51 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A Basketball Legend, John Moreau</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/A-Basketball-Legend,-John-Moreau.aspx</link><description>In the world of basketball he is a legend.  John Moreau refereed at countless NCAA tournaments and Olympic trials.  He has been on the court with basketball super-stars like Michael Jordan, David Thompson, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson. Coach Jimmy Valvano affectionately called Moreau “Papa John.”</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A Family Affair, the Keiths</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/A-Family-Affair,-the-Keiths.aspx</link><description>Kathy and Doug Keith were warned that their son Jimmy, diagnosed with Down syndrome, may not have the same physical abilities as his twin sister. Keiths were determined that Jimmy would have opportunities to play sports. Today, the entire family is involved, cheering at events, playing sports, raising funds to support athletes like their son, coaching, and even starting a basketball program</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 19:39:12 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A Life in Balance: Michael Abraham</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/A-Life-in-Balance--Michael-Abraham.aspx</link><description>Michael Abraham has been in Special Olympics for nearly two decades, and it has helped him build strength, make friends, learn responsibility and develop confidence. Now, Michael applies these skills in his daily life and at work.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 20:55:06 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A Love of Football</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/latin-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/A-Love-of-Football.aspx</link><description>Brazilians legends Romario and Zico, two of the World's most loved football heroes, are the latest to be tied together with the Special Olympics movement and millions of athletes around the world.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor Latin America</author><pubDate>Thu, 08 Mar 2012 20:18:55 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A Swimmer's Quest to Defy Expectations, Melissa Adams</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/A-Swimmer-s-Quest-to-Defy-Expectations,-Melissa-Adams.aspx</link><description>Melissa, a 28-year-old swimmer from the Matanuska Valley in Alaska, has spent much of 2011 training toward her goal of getting “all golds” at her first World Games. A swimmer from Alaska may seem a bit unusual, but Melissa makes a habit of defying expectations.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 21:14:51 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A World of Opportunities, Lani DiMello</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/A-World-of-Opportunities,-Lani-DiMello.aspx</link><description>Doctors said Lani is “never going to achieve anything.”  She defies their low expectations every day. She is a graceful gymnast and leads by example, mentoring other athletes.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Tue, 12 Jun 2012 19:26:43 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Brother-Sister Youth Partners, Sarah and Ben Barnhart</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Brother-Sister-Youth-Partners,-Sarah-and-Ben-Barnhart.aspx</link><description>Sarah and Ben are not just siblings, they’re a team. In June, they head to the Global Youth Activation Summit in Athens from Colorado, where they lead Project Unify® at their school and are working to expand youth involvement in Special Olympics Colorado.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:07:24 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Confidence in Sports and Life, Molly Hincka</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Confidence-in-Sports-and-Life,-Molly-Hincka.aspx</link><description>“I feel stronger. I can run faster. I can do it on my own and I never give up.” This is what Special Olympics athlete Molly Hincka will tell you is the secret to her confidence, her training and joy of running.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:07:26 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Drills on Wheels</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Drills-on-Wheels.aspx</link><description>Students from John F. Kennedy High School in Cleveland, Ohio, organized “Drills on Wheels,” an event and awareness campaign for Special Olympics.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Eyes on the Prize, Karen Dickerson</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Eyes-on-the-Prize,-Karen-Dickerson.aspx</link><description>Karen Dickerson says she's most at home when her running shoes are pounding the pavement. Six days a week, several miles a day, all year long.  She's always trying to improve -- her time, her form, her endurance. &lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Fierce Competitor, Kayla McKeon</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Fierce-Competitor,-Kayla-McKeon.aspx</link><description>Kayla McKeon has been in Special Olympics for a decade, and it has helped her build strength, make friends, learn responsibility and develop confidence. Now, Kayla applies these skills in her daily life and in college.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:35:32 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>He is Hooked, Tony Covington</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/He-is-Hooked,-Tony-Covington.aspx</link><description>A former professional player with the National Football League, Tony Covington understands the meaning of "the power of sports"--on and off the playing field.  He told us about the difference he sees in Special Olympics athletes and how his own worldview has been transformed.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Hometown Champions, Melissa, Scott, Christopher</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Hometown-Champions,-Melissa,-Scott,-Christopher.aspx</link><description>Meet Melissa, Scott, and Christopher – their stories are testaments to the power of sport.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:43:42 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>In Memory, Jimmy Carnes</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/In-Memory,-Jimmy-Carnes.aspx</link><description>It is my sad duty to report to you that the Special Olympics movement lost one of its most loyal and dedicated volunteers this week, Jimmy Carnes. Jimmy died on Saturday March 5 after a long battle with cancer. His wonderful wife, Nanette, and many of his 14 children, grandchildren, step grandchildren and great grandchildren were at his side. He was 76 years young.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:48:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Let Me Win, Joshua Powell</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Let-Me-Win,-Joshua-Powell.aspx</link><description>Joshua Powell is on an exciting journey of discovery. A recent arrival in China, Powell grew up in Colorado where he got involved with sports as a Special Olympics athlete at the age of 7. He's now learning Chinese and helping younger people in China with intellectual disabilities. He wrote this narrative of his adventure so far.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Michael Phelps: Special Olympics' New Global Ambassador</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2011/Michael_Phelps__Special_Olympics__New_Global_Ambassador.aspx</link><description>His is a tale that appeals to many people -- the story of a physically awkward kid who struggled with learning and behavior problems; but overcame them all to become one of the greatest swimmers of all time. But for Special Olympics athletes, the Michael Phelps story has an added meaning: he's living proof that determination can lead to skill and that skill can lead to triumph.</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Pushing the Limits, Jackie Wittenburg</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Pushing-the-Limits,-Jackie-Wittenburg.aspx</link><description>Before Jackie Wittenburg joined Special Olympics, her mom, Kathy, worried. She wondered how a new group of people would react to her daughter. Jackie has Apert Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that can lead to cognitive, speech and hearing deficits, along with malformations of the head, face and limbs.</description><author>Editor Media</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Runs in the Family, Lisa and John Aronson</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Runs-in-the-Family,-Lisa-and-John-Aronson.aspx</link><description>For John and Lisa Aronson, Special Olympics has been a constant.  Both avid athletes, they got involved at an early age and met while volunteering.  Even after starting a family, they still make time to organize state tournaments and volunteer at the Games-- bringing their three-year-old twins along to cheer.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:07:52 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Soaring to Glory, Brady Tanner</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Soaring-to-Glory,-Brady-Tanner.aspx</link><description>Brady Tanner has countless medals to his name and has been competing in a variety of Special Olympics sports for over two decades. But powerlifting is where Brady really excels and he is heading to the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens to represent Team USA. But his road to glory was not an easy one.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:07:55 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics is My Life, Ted Rutt</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Special-Olympics-is-My-Life,-Ted-Rutt.aspx</link><description>Even before he got involved with Special Olympics, Ted realized the importance of participating in sports and he was there to help and encourage the athletes.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:07:59 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Stories about our Athletes</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories_about_our_Athletes.aspx</link><description>Stories about our athletes in words, videos and slideshows.</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>North America Press Releases</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/North-America-Press-Releases.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;North America Press ReleasesSocialCheck here for the latest information on North America110&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>North America Stories</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/North-America-Stories.aspx</link><description>Here are the best stories from Special Olympics programs across North America.</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Fri, 11 Mar 2011 19:43:15 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>ToysRUs Named Founding Partner of 2014 Special Olympics USA Games</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/ToysRUs-Named-Founding-Partner-of-2014-Special-Olympics-USA-Games.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;SocialToys"R"Us Named Founding Partner of 2014 Special Olympics USA GamesBuilding on a Company wide Commitment to Supporting Children with Special Needs, Toys“R”Us® will Serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2014 Games First ever Young Athletes™ Festival2012 03 14(PRINCETON, NJ)&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Athlete Update</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Athlete-Update.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;SocialDoctors said Lani is “never going to achieve anything.”  She defies their low expectations every day. She is a graceful gymnast and leads by example, mentoring other athletes.2011 10 12 A World of OpportunitiesRemember Lani DeMello? She was born with&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>150 lbs Lost, Sara Abbott</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/150-lbs-Lost,-Sara-Abbott.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics rhythmic gymnast Sara Abbott is accustomed to beating the odds. When she was an infant, doctors said she would never walk or talk; she was not supposed to live past the age of 30; and three years ago, she weighed well over 300 pounds.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:52:51 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Capitol Hill Day</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Capitol-Hill-Day.aspx</link><description>On Wednesday, January 27th there was a certain excitement in the air on Capitol Hill – not only because of the President’s State of the Union address – but because Special Olympics athletes, Best Buddies participants, along with coaches, program leaders and family members from 43 states across the U.S. were in town to share their passion for the needs of those with intellectual disabilities.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:52:58 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Celebrating my Brother, Jenni and Jason Newbury</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Celebrating-my-Brother,-Jenni-and-Jason-Newbury.aspx</link><description>Jenni Newbury has seen firsthand the transformative power of Special Olympics. Having recently joined the staff, Jenni told us about her brother’s involvement and how she strives to create new ways for Jason to be included.  We wanted to share their story with you.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:53:02 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Colorado's Youth Activation Committee</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Colorado-s-Youth-Activation-Committee.aspx</link><description>On September 26, 2010, Denver Broncos Linebacker #92, Elvis Dumervil generously provided Special Olympics Colorado with the opportunity of a lifetime inviting 14 SOCO student Athletes and Unified Sports® Partners to attend the Broncos vs. Colts game at INVESCO Field.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Depths of Opportunity, Andrew Smilley</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Depths-of-Opportunity,-Andrew-Smilley.aspx</link><description>Thousands of miles away from the warm water temperatures of his home in the Cayman Islands, Andrew Smilley was about to join 800 swimmers, including five fellow Special Olympic athletes, in one of the most challenging Open Water Swims in the world, the RCP Tiburon Mile.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:53:10 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>EKS Act Introduced</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/EKS-Act-Introduced.aspx</link><description>We are thrilled to share with you a significant step forward in our efforts to move the 2010 Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act through the U.S. Congress.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:53:12 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>EKS Challenge</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/EKS-Challenge.aspx</link><description>On the morning of October 23, 2010 hundreds of Best Buddies and Special Olympics supporters will cycle, run and walk the streets of Washington, D.C. at the National Mall to honor the legacy of Eunice Kennedy Shriver.  &lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:53:17 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act Introduced</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Eunice-Kennedy-Shriver-Act-Introduced.aspx</link><description>We are thrilled to share with you a significant step forward in our efforts to move the 2010 Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act through the U.S. Congress. &lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:53:21 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Frank Selva Awarded</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Frank-Selva-Awarded.aspx</link><description>When it comes to Special Olympics golf, volunteer and PGA Professional Frank Selva has been a driving force in building the sport for the movement in Connecticut and throughout the country. On March 23, Selva was recognized for his more than 20 years of service with the PGA Conrad Rehling Award.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 19:32:23 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Home Town Hero; Amanda Gump</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Home-Town-Hero;-Amanda-Gump.aspx</link><description>When Amanda Gump was growing up, kids made fun of her because they said there “something wrong” with her. Whenever it was time to pick teams, she was always chosen last.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:07:38 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Hooked, Jay Glicksmann</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Hooked,-Jay-Glicksmann.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;Social"Hooked" on Special OlympicsJay Glicksman’s tenure as a Special Olympics volunteer and coach spans two decades.  He is also a loyal donor to the organization.  Through his involvement and support, Jay has transformed the lives of many athletes, yet he&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 19:34:59 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Millet to Represent the USA</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Millet-to-Represent-the-USA.aspx</link><description>One of the 16 Special Olympics athletes selected for the first-ever, Special Olympics Unity Cup Presented by Coca-Cola is Matthew Millett from South Grafton, Massachusetts, who will be representing the United States.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Mourning Ted Stevens</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Mourning-Ted-Stevens.aspx</link><description>The entire Special Olympics family is saddened by the great loss of former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens, who championed the efforts of Special Olympics throughout his life.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:53:36 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Nebraska Readies for 2010</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/2010-USA-National-Games-Overview.aspx</link><description>More than 3,000 athletes from 48 states will compete in the US National Games July 18 – 23 in Lincoln, NE. The Games will mark a milestone as the largest event in the history of the state of Nebraska and engage more than 8,000 volunteers, the University of Nebraska and numerous local and national businesses throughout the state.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Power of Persistence, David Hill</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Power-of-Persistence,-David-Hill.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;To get where he is today, Special Olympics power lifter David Hill has moved mountains – or at least his mom thinks so. &lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:55:09 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Project Unify, North Carolina</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Project-Unify,-North-Carolina.aspx</link><description>At the invitation of North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue, Special Olympics North Carolina hosted its inaugural EKS Day celebration on September 24th with a reception for more than 200 at the Executive Mansion in Raleigh, NC, including 70 Project UNIFY® youth attending from throughout the state for the first-ever Youth Summit.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:55:12 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Rosa's Law</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Rosa-s-Law.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;A journey that began as one Maryland family’s battle for respect and acceptance for their daughter and sister, Rosa, became a significant milestone in the ongoing battle for dignity, inclusion and respect of all people with intellectual disabilities when United States President Barack Obama signed bill S.2781 into federal law on October 5, 2010.&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 21:23:45 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Shriver writes to Emanuel</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Shriver-writes-to-Emanuel.aspx</link><description>Letter from Special Olympics Timothy J. Shriver to White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 21:55:21 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics Haiti Rebuilds</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Special-Olympics-Haiti-Rebuilds.aspx</link><description>In an effort to rebuild a strong and robust Special Olympics Haiti, Camp Shriver is slated to launch in five cities across the country, starting July 5. The sports day camps for people with intellectual disabilities--named after the founder of Special Olympics, the late Eunice Kennedy Shriver--will run for four weeks in Petionville, Carrefour, Jacmel, Les Cayes and Cape Haitian.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 18:23:58 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Athlete Kayla McKeon</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Athlete-Kayla-McKeon.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;Kayla McKeon has been in Special Olympics for a decade, and it has helped her build strength, make friends, learn responsibility and develop confidence. Now, Kayla applies these skills in her daily life and in college.&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Thu, 03 May 2012 18:11:10 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Alva Stinson: Better Hearing Makes a World of Difference</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Alva-Stinson--Better-Hearing-Makes-a-World-of-Difference.aspx</link><description>In just the last couple of months, Alva Stinson, a 48-year-old athlete from Indiana, has become more confident and social, has improved his performance at work, and is enjoying life much more than he ever did before.</description><author>Editor North America</author><pubDate>Thu, 03 May 2012 19:00:12 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Johnathan Sanders: On Track to a Healthy Life</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Johnathan-Sanders--On-Track-to-a-Healthy-Life.aspx</link><description>When Tonya Becnel first met Johnathan, he was a sad-looking 6th grader, trudging slowly as he dragged his feet, keeping his eyes to the ground.</description><author>Editor Media</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Nandi Isaac: A Picture of Courage</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/Nandi-Isaac--A-Picture-of-Courage.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;When Nandi Isaac was born, doctors told her parents their child would probably never talk, walk or even be toilet-trained. But Nandi has courage and perseverance – and has come very far indeed, in more ways than one.&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics Stories</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Special_Olympics_Stories.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics has its games, programs and initiatives all around the world. These stories, told in words, videos and slideshows, show you what it's all about.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Wed, 08 Aug 2012 12:56:21 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics Stories Photos Videos</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/features_and_media.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics tells its story in words, photos and videos. These are our best of all three.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 17:40:19 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics Slideshows</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Special_Olympics_Slideshows.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics has its games, programs and initiatives all around the world. These slideshows show you what it's all about.</description><author>Will Schermerhorn</author><pubDate>Fri, 07 Sep 2012 22:34:20 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics Videos</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/videos.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics has its games, programs and initiatives all around the world. These videos show you what it's all about.</description><author>Editor Media</author><pubDate>Mon, 03 Sep 2012 13:55:13 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Youth Activation Committe New Members</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Youth_Activation_Committe_New_Members.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics believes that through sports young people can make a difference in friendships, schools and communities. Project UNIFY is youth driven, with a Youth Activation Committee (YAC) made up of young people representing middle schools, high schools and colleges nationwide. Members of the committee will work together over the course of the year to develop strategies promoting school communities where all young people are agents of change. During their time on the committee, YAC members will provide leadership to Special Olympics and Project UNIFY by participating in Special Olympics global events, providing advice and counsel on strategies to reach other youths, engaging in and promoting Special Olympics activities in their home environments, communicating and networking via Web connectivity with other youth around the country, and reviewing Project UNIFY materials for innovation and viability.</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 18:40:15 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Youth join Climate Council</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Youth_join_Climate_Council.aspx</link><description>The National School Climate Center announced additional members, for a total of 37, to the National School Climate Council.  The Council represents critical education stakeholders and advances a national campaign focused on school climate policy, practice and research.&lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 18:46:29 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>2011 Games a Reality, Michael Dee</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/2011_Games_a_Reality,_Michael_Dee.aspx</link><description>At first, Michael Dee’s goal was merely to conquer Chile’s brutal Atacama Desert, as part of a nearly week-long endurance race across one of the harshest environments on Earth. At about 10,000 feet high, the Atacama is where NASA scientists go to study terrain that most resembles the dry, desolate Martian landscape. It's also where this 53-year-old native of Buffalo, NY, took up a unique challenge as part of the 4Deserts Ultramarathon, known as one of the most punishing endurance races on the planet. The Singapore-based businessman hoped to raise enough money to send all of Singapore's Special Olympics athletes to the 2011 World Summer Games in Athens.</description><author>Editor Media</author><pubDate>Wed, 11 May 2011 00:33:44 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Be a Fan of Joy</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Be_a_Fan_of_Joy.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;SocialBe a Fan of JoyRaise your holiday spirits with A Very Special Christmas music and help bring the joy of Special Olympics to more people worldwide.Since 1987, Special Olympics and top recording artists have worked together on a fundraising collaboration&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Boosting Coaching Skills</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Boosting_Coaching_Skills.aspx</link><description>An agreement that will raise the profile of Special Olympics in the international sports community and also lead to a stronger coaching program with improved coaching guides was set into place last month in Europe.</description><author>Editor Media</author><pubDate>Wed, 11 May 2011 02:50:19 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Call for Renewed Commitment</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Call_for_Renewed_Commitment.aspx</link><description>During the USA National Games in Nebraska, Special Olympics Chairman and CEO Tim Shriver and First Lady of Nebraska Sally Ganem hosted over 30 national and local education leaders and 15 youth with and without intellectual disabilities for an Education Roundtable discussing Special Olympics move to introduce a broadened vision of inclusion in the classroom.</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 17:37:26 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Celebrating Special Olympic Athletes</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Celebrating_Special_Olympic_Athletes.aspx</link><description>When Special Olympics Cayman Islands athlete Andrew Smilley was voted to have achieved the Greatest Open Water Swim of 2009 in an online poll it was a great accomplishment first and foremost by Smilley, but it also proved to be a tremendous example of how the passion and devotion of Special Olympics athletes, families and supporters has successfully transcended to the Internet thru social media and other online communities. &lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2011 23:54:26 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Community Support Across the Border</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Community_Support_Across_the_Border.aspx</link><description>Most of us were shocked and dismayed when we heard about the devastation that was caused by the earthquake in Haiti earlier this month.</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Mon, 11 Apr 2011 19:05:21 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Free Shoes</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Free_Shoes.aspx</link><description>As a shoe store owner and Special Olympics Florida coach for more than six years, Richard Wills has regularly given away merchandise from his store to Special Olympics athletes in need.</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 20:50:57 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Healthy Athletes Has Impact</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Healthy_Athletes_Has_Impact.aspx</link><description>Chih Hua Liu's visit to Healthy Athletes Opening Eyes at the 2009 World Winter Games in February ended in an ambulance ride to the emergency room with dangerously high pressure in his eye. When Bill Lutz went to a Healthy Hearing screening later that week, he was wearing obsolete hearing aids that left him virtually unable to hear. Recent follow-up interviews found that these athletes and many others like them are still benefiting from the interventions received at Healthy Athletes, as well as their overall Special Olympics experience.</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 21:16:10 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Impacting a Movement</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Impacting_a_Movement.aspx</link><description>One athlete called attending the Global Athlete Congress the adventure of his life. Others spoke of the responsibilities that come with being delegates to the first such meeting in five years, held June 6-9 in Marrakech, Morocco.  Now they can all look back on what was accomplished – which was a lot.</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 21:21:09 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>New Pair of Goggles</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/New_Pair_of_Goggles.aspx</link><description>At one time, Athlete Kristina O’Neal did not know the pool had depth, but she is now open to a whole new world of swimming because of a precious gift of goggles from Healthy Athletes.</description><author>Editor PR</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 20:50:05 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Nike Sneakers Invaluable to Athlete</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Nike_Sneakers_Invaluable_to_Athlete.aspx</link><description>When she first stood up in new athletic shoes provided at a health screening in Warsaw, Poland, Jennet Sopyeue smiled broadly and gave Fit Feet Clinical Director Carine Haemels two enthusiastic thumbs up. No wonder.</description><author>Editor PR</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 20:53:31 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>On and Off the Field</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/On_and_Off_the_Field.aspx</link><description>Three Special Olympics athletes from the Serbian town of Cacak received an award for their sporting achievements.  In an act of generosity and sportsmanship, they decided to help out their hometown team with a contribution.</description><author>Editor PR</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 20:54:36 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Project UNIFY Op-Ed</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Project_UNIFY_Op-Ed.aspx</link><description>We fight to end the R-Word every day. We all know it’s how the world should be, but many times, those with no connection to our athletes have trouble understanding why it’s so critical.They read it in laws. They hear it used every day by their friends. They say it in their everyday conversation. Thanks to the passing of Rosa’s Law in the Senate earlier this month, the first of these three has been eliminated and we are one step closer to achieving the respect, dignity, and acceptance of those with intellectual disabilities.</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 18:07:09 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Providing Healthy Foods</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Providing_Healthy_Foods.aspx</link><description>Volunteers at Healthy Athletes Health Promotion events spend time and energy teaching athletes about avoiding sugar and fat-filled snacks, the benefits of eating a bigger variety of fresh fruits and vegetables  and other healthy eating habits. Yet, when the athletes leave the venue, the food choices that confront them, whether it is in their homes or even at the Special Olympics cafeteria, often don’t include healthy alternatives.</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Fri, 11 Feb 2011 16:59:06 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Respect</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Respect.aspx</link><description>March 3, 2010 marked the second annual day of awareness for “Spread the Word to End the Word.” With more than 20,000 pledges on March 3 at &lt;a href="http://www.r-word.org"&gt;www.r-word.org&lt;/a&gt; a major goal of the campaign was surpassed - 100,000 total pledges. &lt;br /&gt;</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 17:40:36 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Olympics Missouri</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Special_Olympics_Missouri.aspx</link><description>On September 8-9, Special Olympics Missouri Field Staff from across the state gathered at Tan-Tar-A resort to kick off Year 3 of Project UNIFY®.</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:09:16 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Start of a Journey</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Start_of_a_Journey.aspx</link><description>The first-ever Special Olympics Unity Cup presented by Coca-Cola marks the beginning of a great journey between Special Olympics and long-time global partner, Coca-Cola.</description><author>Editor Content</author><pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 17:19:55 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Student's Legal Battle</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Student_s_Legal_Battle.aspx</link><description>In December, A U.S. District Court judge in Michigan ruled that Oakland University had discriminated against Micah Fialka-Feldman, a student with an intellectual disability, when officials decided he could not live in on-campus housing.</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:23:14 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>The Dream Team</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/The_Dream_Team.aspx</link><description>Sport: South Carolina Unified Soccer Team; “The Dream Team” &lt;br /&gt;Delegation: South Carolina &lt;br /&gt;Achievement: Earned a bronze medal while competing in the highest unified division of the 2009 SC State Fall Games.</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:36:37 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Wyoming Hosts YAC Summit</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/News_and_Stories/Stories2010/Wyoming_Hosts_YAC_Summit.aspx</link><description>In November, nearly 100 youth and mentors representing 14 schools from 8 different Wyoming communities attended the 2010 Wyoming Youth Activation Summit in Casper, Wyoming.  That’s more than DOUBLE the participation from last year’s inaugural Summit!</description><author>Editor Communications</author><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 18:28:35 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>CHD 2012 Post-Event Release</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Press/2012/CHD_2012_Post-Event_Release.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics and Best Buddies participants and supporters joined together yesterday on Capitol Hill to meet with America’s elected leaders to urge continued commitment to the work of the late Eunice Kennedy Shriver and to make sure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are top of the mind when critical decisions are made for the country.</description><author>Editor PR</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Spread The Word Release 2012</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Press/2012/Spread_The_Word_Release_2012.aspx</link><description>Special Olympics and Best Buddies ask supporters to share their stories as part of the 4th annual Spread the Word to End the Word Awareness Day.</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>MacKenzie MacDonald</title><link>http://www.specialolympics.org/Regions/north-america/News-and-Stories/Stories/MacKenzie-MacDonald.aspx</link><description>&lt;p&gt;MacKenzie MacDonald has faced many challenges growing up. She and her parents found ways to overcome -- and Special Olympics was a big part of that. It still is.&lt;/p&gt;</description><author>Editor eComm</author><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jan 1 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate></item></channel></rss>