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.
Sports Business Journal Dedicates Four Articles to Special Olympics in One Issue
New CEO David Evangelista, Board Chair Timothy Shriver, Chief of Sport and Competition Louis Lauria, Regional President & Managing Director, Latin America Claudia Echeverry, and Special Olympics Board Member and Athlete Leader, Kiera Byland BEM featured in expansive series of articles.
1 Min Read
Dominica Takes Bold Step for Inclusion by Joining Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
On Thursday, 8 January, 2026, the Commonwealth of Dominica marked a historic milestone on its journey toward a more inclusive society. Under the visionary leadership of the Senator Hon. Oscar George, Minister of State with Responsibility for Sports, the government officially joined the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion.
2 Min Read
From One Swim Meet to a Movement
When Jillian Pierre first walked into a Special Olympics event in 2012 with her son Jaleel, she thought she was simply bringing him to swim.
4 Min Read
Aged 29 Years, Selim Hears His Mother's Voice for the First Time
Special Olympics Bosnia and Herzegovina transformed the life of Selim Mujanović by securing access to a hearing aid
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Completes Georgetown University Innovation Hub Fellowship to Advance Young Athletes App
On December 11, 2025, leaders from the Special Olympics Early Childhood Development team successfully completed a 13-week Fellowship with the Georgetown University Thrive Center’s Innovation Hub.
2 Min Read
David Evangelista, Incoming Special Olympics CEO, Featured on Special Chronicles Podcast
David Evangelista, incoming CEO of Special Olympics International, is the latest guest on the Special Chronicles Podcast, produced and hosted by Special Olympics Illinois athlete Daniel Smrokowski.
1 Min Read
Lighting the Way Series, Part 5: One Father's Journey and a Decade of Transformation
Families—parents, caregivers, siblings, and other supporters—play a major role in the Special Olympics movement. They promote inclusivity and encourage athletes to grow and believe in themselves.
5 Min Read
A National Promise of Belonging: The Gambia Joins the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
Ministry of Youth and Sports formalizes agreement to advance inclusive sport and education
2 Min Read
Lighting the Way Series, Part 4: The Power of Love and Support
Families are at the heart of Special Olympics, championing inclusion, building community, and driving impact every day. They shape every athlete’s journey by offering a unique type of love and support in a way that nurtures their physical, emotional, and personal development.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Angola Wins Gold at Historic Basketball World Cup
Special Olympics Angola has made history by winning gold at the first ever Special Olympics Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup hosted in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Angola Soars with Manchester City
Special Olympics Angola unveils a thrilling partnership with Manchester City and global appliance group Midea to create a common football space in the city of Luanda
2 Min Read