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.
Daina Shilts: The Power of Sports—and Unity
She won bronze at the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games and has competed alongside her longtime role-model Hannah Teter.
Newly elected inclusive committee 'hits the ground running'
In December 2016 the newly elected regional inclusive Youth Activation Committee met for the first time in Frankfurt, Germany to discuss how to develop youth engagement in their own programs and throughout Europe-Eurasia.
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Team Ecuador Trains for the World Games
Carlos and his teammates grew up together playing Special Olympics sports. Ahead of the World Summer Games, they trained together.
Leo and Gedeon: Hope in Haiti
Haitian athletes Leo and Gedeon played wherever they could as they trained for the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games.
Donghan Kim: To Bring Honor to Korea
He dreamed of competing in an endurance sport -- open water swimming -- in the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens.
Making a Difference, One Athlete at a Time
Some 3,000 coaches support and train the athletes who compete at Special Olympics World Games. Their impact can last a lifetime.
Special Olympics World Games 2019 in Abu Dhabi
For the first time, Special Olympics World Games will be held in the Middle East. Let the countdown begin!
Learn More About the IKEA Foundation 2017 Let'sPlay Campaign
The 2017 IKEA Good Cause campaign specifically focused on children’s right to play and develop. This video unveiled that campaign.
FIBA Europe's Kamil Novak 2016 Message
FIBA Europe's Kamil Novak showed his support for Special Olympics European Basketball Week #EBW2016 #PlayUnified
Meet Chevi
Chevi Peters struggled with health issues all his life. After 38 operations, he's winning gold—and showing what strength really means.
See for Yourself—Why You Should Get Involved
Why get involved with Special Olympics? A few of our famous supporters tell us what keeps them coming back.
Healthy Athletes: Training for Games, Training for Life
The Special Olympics Healthy Athletes Program empowers athletes to play well and live healthy lives.