President Carter was in office during Special Olympics’ first decade. He and his wife, Rosalynn, were among early supporters who took part in a gala premiere of the blockbuster "Superman: The Movie" as part of a benefit for Special Olympics.
In a letter honoring Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver after her death, he noted, “The success and growth of the Special Olympics is a fitting legacy.”
After his presidency, he worked hard on behalf of people in disadvantaged communities, including victims of Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy. He and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter also demonstrated their commitment to social justice and basic human rights during the many decades they volunteered their time for Habitat for Humanity, both in the United States and around the world alongside.
Special Olympics salutes former President Carter’s lasting legacy of inclusion and peace.