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.
Crossing Finish Lines and Making History: Kyle and Brent Pease
On this episode of Inclusion Revolution Radio, we are highlighting the power of perseverance, partnership and possibility in a conversation between host Novie Craven and brothers Kyle and Brent Pease, world-renowned push-assist athletes, disability advocates and co-founders of The Kyle Pease Foundation.
1 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes Honour 50th Anniversary of Nadia Comăneci’s “Perfect 10” at European Parliament Event
Special Olympics athletes, Celine and Ionut, were among guest speakers at a recent special event in the European Parliament to honour the amazing career of Special Olympics Global Ambassador Nadia Comăneci – and the power of inclusive sport.
2 Min Read
Teaching Health Through Food: Kayla’s Passion for Nutrition
In celebration of National Nutrition Month, Renee Dease met with Special Olympics Michigan staff member, Health Messenger, and athlete, Kayla Cornell, to talk about how she empowers Special Olympics athletes to build healthier habits through practical cooking skills and nutrition education.
3 Min Read
World Down Syndrome Day 2026
Athlete Leaders from Special Olympics Latin America share important messages for World Down Syndrome Day—a day of awareness, solidarity, activism, and celebration.
A Week of Impact: Showcasing Inclusive Health at Special Olympics Ireland Site Visits
A weeklong series of site visits across Ireland highlighted innovative partnerships, athlete led initiatives, and institutional leadership advancing inclusive health for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
5 Min Read
Special Olympics Chairman, Tim Shriver to receive 2026 Laetare Medal
Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, will receive the 2026 Laetare Medal at the University of Notre Dame’s 181st University Commencement Ceremony on May 17, 2026.
1 Min Read
5th World Association for Sport Management Conference Features Keynote Address from Special Olympics Chief of Health Operations
Under the theme “Global Visions, Local Actions: Innovation and Sustainability in Sport Management,” the conference fostered dialogue on sport governance, innovation, sustainability, and the social impact of sport.
1 Min Read
New Chapter for Inclusive Badminton as Special Olympics and BWF Reinforce Partnership
YONEX All England Open Badminton Championships 2026 played host to Special Olympics and the Badminton World Federation that celebrated the renewal of their Memorandum of Understanding.
5 Min Read
North America's Athlete Leaders are Ready to Take on Big Challenges
Before, during, and after the Congress in March; athlete leaders know they’ve been empowered to lead and discuss difficult topics and find solutions to big challenges.
3 Min Read
Finding Strength in Community: Heather’s Mental Health Journey
In light of new research from Special Olympics Health published in JAMA Network Open, Renee Dease, a longstanding member of the Special Olympics movement, sat down with Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete and Health Messenger, Heather Holland, to talk about mental health, stigma, and the power of community.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes to Compete in European Aquatics 2026 Open Water Events in Cyprus, Hungary, and Spain
Organizations deepen their collaboration with events taking place in April, July, and October.
1 Min Read
