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We are helping to make the world a better, healthier and more joyful place—one athlete, one volunteer, one family member at a time.
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Creating an Inclusive World
Special Olympics is a global sports movement to end discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities.
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What We Do
Every day, Special Olympics events are taking place around the globe transforming the lives of millions of individuals with intellectual disabilities both on and off the playing field.

Sports

Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes, unified partners, coaches and volunteers with 32 Olympic-type sports.

Inclusive Health

Improving the health and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities.

Youth and Schools

Empowering Youth Leaders, educators, coaches, and families to build inclusive schools and communities for all.

Leadership

Unleashing leadership potential in people of all abilities.
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Make a Difference

Please donate and help us get one more athlete onto the playing field.
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Stories of Impact
Stories from around the world, inspiring courage, hope and confidence.

Remembering Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones wasn’t just a music industry legend; he was a true leader in spreading the message of inclusion! His dedication to the A Very Special Christmas (AVCS) albums is unmatched, helping bring people together through the power of music.
1 Min Read

How Special Olympics is Powering Inclusive Sport with the Help of Sport Partnerships Around the World

A new report from Special Olympics reveals how a surge in new sport partnerships is helping to power the spread of global inclusion.
4 Min Read

How Special Olympics Kickstarted the Push for Better Disability Data

The following is an excerpt from STAT News’ article, “How Special Olympics kickstarted the push for better disability data,” on Special Olympics’ continuous work to better healthcare for people with intellectual disabilities.
1 Min Read

A Journey of Inclusion and Connection

This past spring, Special Olympics Youth Leaders Britany and Denisher embarked on a journey that would change their lives forever.
3 Min Read

EsmeeAnne Becomes First Special Olympics Athlete from Europe to Complete a 70.3 IRONMAN

On 1 September 2024, Special Olympics Netherlands athlete EsmeeAnne de Meulmeester ran, swam and cycled her heart out to complete a half IRONMAN in Duisburg, Germany.
3 Min Read

Why the R-Word Is the R-Slur

Practice Inclusion: End the Use of the R-Word The research shows that when social media users are posting about people with intellectual disabilities, 7 in every 10 of those posts are negative, and 6 in 10 contain a slur.
2 Min Read
Our Global Reach
With 5 competitions per hour across the globe, our movement represents over 5.3 million athletes, unified partners, coaches, and volunteers.

4,238,388

Athletes and Unified Partners

256

National and State Programs

20,160

Unified Schools

366,978

Coaches

72,468

Athlete Health Screenings

777,670

Volunteers
Join Our Movement
Join our movement, belong to an inspiring community and help us to build a better tomorrow for people of all abilities. With over 30 sports and nearly 50,000 games every year, there's an opportunity for you!

Become an Athlete

Become a Coach

Become a Volunteer

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Stay Connected

Share your contact information so we can keep you up-to-date on all of the exciting work happening within our movement.
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