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.
For Special Olympics Chief Inspiration Officer, Her Job is Her Way of Life
In a recent article by Glamour, Loretta Claiborne discusses using her life to teach others how to be more inclusive and empathic.
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Staying on Course While Navigating the New Normal
How are we creating tipping points toward inclusion across communities? What can others learn from the Special Olympics movement and our athletes? What does our return-to-play plan look like in various parts of the world?
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Lead to Include—Regional Youth Leadership Summits
Over the past year, more than 250 Youth Leaders with and without intellectual disabilities gathered at 6 Regional Youth Summits to build a more inclusive world—starting in their own communities.
Johanna Schoeneck Featured in ESPN Article for Working on the Front Lines of the Pandemic
Special Olympics athlete, Johanna Schoeneck, makes it her mission to keep those with intellectual and developmental disabilities safe during the coronavirus outbreak.
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Tim Shriver and Daughter Kathleen Featured in People Magazine for Father’s Day
Special Olympics Board Chairman, Timothy Shriver and his daughter Kathleen get candid about social distancing, social media and the legacy left by the women in the family.
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5 Benefits of Inclusive Education
How Students With and Without Intellectual Disabilities Can Thrive in a Socially Inclusive Learning Environment
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International Day of Yoga
Celebrate the International Day of Yoga with Special Olympics on 21 June! Yoga is important to Special Olympics athletes around the world. It is a great way to relax before an important competition or focus before a practice.
World Refugee Day
On Saturday, June 20, 2020, join us as we celebrate World Refugee Day, which commemorates the bravery and strength of the many refugees forced to leave their homes because of persecution.
Celebrating Fathers
Special Olympics is grateful for the participation and support of fathers all over the globe. Fathers who are athletes, fans, coaches, volunteers, staff and cheerleaders help make this movement so special.
Juneteeth: Special Olympics Pauses to Reflect
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is celebrated every 19 June. This holiday commemorates the announcement in Galveston, Texas, on 19 June 1865 that all enslaved people were free and celebrates the end of slavery.
In Memory of Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith
Special Olympics mourns the loss of Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith, a beloved advocate for people with intellectual disabilities. She was the eighth child and youngest daughter of Rose and Joseph Kennedy, sister to U.S. President John F. Kennedy and Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics.
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Chief Health Officer Explains How COVID-19 Complicates Dental Treatment For Patients With Intellectual Disabilities
Patients with intellectual disabilities already face complications in finding and getting dental treatment. The COVID-19 pandemic has only made these challenges harder. Special Olympics Chief Health Officer shares her insights about these difficulties.
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