Stories
These global stories are about the power of Special Olympics to inspire hope, confidence and courage. Special Olympics changes the lives of our athletes with intellectual disabilities but also our coaches, families, volunteers and others who have the opportunity to take part.
North America's Athlete Leaders are Ready to Take on Big Challenges
The athlete delegates chosen for the Special Olympics North America Athlete Congress see themselves as leaders. Leading is what they intend to do before, during, and after the Congress in March. They know they’ve been empowered to discuss difficult topics and find solutions to big challenges.
3 Min Read
Finding Strength in Community: Heather’s Mental Health Journey
In light of new research from Special Olympics Health published in JAMA Network Open, Renee Dease, a longstanding member of the Special Olympics movement, sat down with Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete and Health Messenger, Heather Holland, to talk about mental health, stigma, and the power of community.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes to Compete in European Aquatics 2026 Open Water Events in Cyprus and Hungary
Organizations deepen their collaboration with events taking place in April and July
2 Min Read
Women at the Heart of Special Olympics: Celebrating Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women throughout history who have shaped our past and are shaping our future.
1 Min Read
Youth Leadership in Africa is Making News
Across Africa, young leaders with and without intellectual disabilities are stepping into the global spotlight and the world is paying attention. From Regional summits to global platforms, young Special Olympics leaders are not waiting for change; they are leading it.
2 Min Read
Athlete Leaders Step Up for a Historic Regional Athlete Congress
Talk a little with the athlete leaders going to the Special Olympics North America Athlete Congress in Michigan, and you will notice they have some things in common.
4 Min Read
Women Play, Women Lead
A significant leadership gap remains across Special Olympics globally. There are 50,739 Athlete Leaders worldwide, with 34.6% more men serving in these roles than women. The Women Play, Women Lead initiative is working to address this issue.
7 Min Read
Special Olympics’ New Children’s Book Series Brings to Life Remarkable Athlete Journeys
Illustrated stories invite young readers to the value of inclusion through sports by joining athletes Anca, Eros, Marcel and Stephanie on their journey to World Winter Games Turin 2025.
3 Min Read
Inclusion at Work: Behind the Scenes at The Coca-Cola Company
Special Olympics Chief Inspiration Officer Loretta Claiborne will do anything it takes to cross the finish line, and her unwavering advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities reflects that same determination.
1 Min Read
Unified by Sport: Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Launches Powerful Documentary Trailer Ahead of Turin 2025 One-Year Anniversary
Featuring four athletes’ journeys, this EU-supported film showcases the impact of Special Olympics and the enduring legacy of the World Winter Games
4 Min Read
The High Rates of Mental Health Struggles
New research from Special Olympics Health, authored by SOI Chief Health Officer, Dr. Dimitri Christakis was published in JAMA Network Open titled: Anxiety, Depression, and Care Barriers in Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
1 Min Read