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.
Empowering the Next Generation
When Wenli first learned about Special Olympics, it wasn’t through a school program or a family connection, it was through a simple post on social media.
2 Min Read
Dylan Sendgraff: Champion of Inclusion at Special Olympics Nebraska
Dylan Sendgraff isn’t just a coach or a mentor; he’s a driving force behind inclusion at Special Olympics Nebraska.
2 Min Read
The Global State of Inclusion in Education: The Year of the Teacher
A global call to action urging governments and systems to invest in teachers as the foundation of inclusive, equitable education for all learners.
1 Min Read
Inclusion Revolution Radio Takes on MetLife Stadium
Instead of being in a studio and behind a microphone, we’re on the ground at MetLife Stadium for the Unified Flag Football Championships presented by Special Olympics New York and the New York Jets.
1 Min Read
Taking Back Sports: ESPN and Special Olympics Building a Unified Future
The Global Presenting Sponsor of Unified Sports and Official Broadcaster for the Special Olympics USA and World Games, ESPN’s longstanding partnership with Special Olympics continues to amplify athlete stories worldwide.
1 Min Read
Sports Business Journal Dedicates Four Articles to Special Olympics in One Issue
New CEO David Evangelista, Board Chair Timothy Shriver, Chief of Sport and Competition Louis Lauria, Regional President & Managing Director, Latin America Claudia Echeverry, and Special Olympics Board Member and Athlete Leader, Kiera Byland BEM featured in expansive series of articles.
1 Min Read
Dominica Takes Bold Step for Inclusion by Joining Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
On Thursday, 8 January, 2026, the Commonwealth of Dominica marked a historic milestone on its journey toward a more inclusive society.
2 Min Read
From One Swim Meet to a Movement
When Jillian Pierre first walked into a Special Olympics event in 2012 with her son Jaleel, she thought she was simply bringing him to swim.
4 Min Read
Aged 29 Years, Selim Hears His Mother's Voice for the First Time
Special Olympics Bosnia and Herzegovina transformed the life of Selim Mujanović by securing access to a hearing aid
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Special Olympics Completes Georgetown University Innovation Hub Fellowship to Advance Young Athletes App
On December 11, 2025, leaders from the Special Olympics Early Childhood Development team successfully completed a 13-week Fellowship with the Georgetown University Thrive Center’s Innovation Hub.
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David Evangelista, Incoming Special Olympics CEO, Featured on Special Chronicles Podcast
David Evangelista, incoming CEO of Special Olympics International, is the latest guest on the Special Chronicles Podcast, produced and hosted by Special Olympics Illinois athlete Daniel Smrokowski.
1 Min Read
Lighting the Way Series, Part 5: One Father's Journey and a Decade of Transformation
Families—parents, caregivers, siblings, and other supporters—play a major role in the Special Olympics movement.
5 Min Read