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.
Our Athletes are Role Models
With over 6-million Special Olympics athletes around the globe, it is easy to find examples of true excellence, dedication, perseverance and motivation.
1 Min Read
“Just go out there and play”: UEFA ambassador Célia Šašić embodies Special Olympics’ spirit
Players at the recent Special Olympics European Football Tournament were not only cheered on by friends, fans and families, they were also supported by international football star Célia Šašić.
3 Min Read
Singer with Autism Knocks Socks Off of America’s Got Talent Judges
Kodi Lee, a singer and musician from Irvine, CA who is blind and has autism, took to the America’s Got Talent stage on Tuesday, 28 May. Initially, the judges didn’t know what to think...
1 Min Read
These Leos are Not Lying About the Power of Inclusion
Special Olympics is proud to recognize the impact of Leos & the Lions Club International Foundation in leading their communities through projects of social inclusion.
1 Min Read
Flagship European Football Week event kicks off in Tilburg, the Netherlands
Football fields all across Europe are coming alive with activity this summer, as women and girls with and without intellectual disabilities claim their rightful place on the pitch.
2 Min Read
Actor Jon Seda and Hamilton Chicago Cast Members join Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Patrick McCarthy in Gala Video
On Saturday, May 11, 2019, Special Olympics Illinois hosted the 12th Annual Inspire Greatness Gala at the Fairmont Chicago.
1 Min Read
Charles Melton and Yara Shahidi Invite Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® to their Movie Screening
Before premiering their new film “The Sun Is Also A Star” to the world, stars Charles Melton (Riverdale) and Yara Shahidi (Black-ish) invited Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® students to an advanced screening in New York City!
1 Min Read
Ephraim & Arnold's Bond Embodies Togetherness
Arnold Schwarzenegger has reconnected with Ephraim Mohlakane, a Special Olympics athlete, Board member, and former Global Messenger.
1 Min Read
'Keep Up With the Girls' on Football Pitches across Europe!
‘Keep Up With the Girls’ is a brand new European Union-supported project aimed at getting women and girls with and without intellectual disabilities (ID) involved in football.
1 Min Read
Mom Sinks 2400 Free Throws in 24-Hours
In an act of true sportsmanship and generosity, Special Olympics parent Debbie Antonelli sunk 2,400 free throws in her 24-Hour Nothing But Net marathon on May 18 to support Special Olympics South Carolina.
2 Min Read
Opening Eyes in Kenya
Special Olympics Kenya and Lions Sight First Eye Hospital Honored with Golisano Award
1 Min Read