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.
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
4 Min Read
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.
2 Min Read
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. They promote inclusivity and encourage athletes to grow and believe in themselves.
5 Min Read
A National Promise of Belonging: The Gambia Joins the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
Ministry of Youth and Sports formalizes agreement to advance inclusive sport and education
2 Min Read
Lighting the Way Series, Part 4: The Power of Love and Support
Families are at the heart of Special Olympics, championing inclusion, building community, and driving impact every day. They shape every athlete’s journey by offering a unique type of love and support in a way that nurtures their physical, emotional, and personal development.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Angola Wins Gold at Historic Basketball World Cup
Special Olympics Angola has made history by winning gold at the first ever Special Olympics Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup hosted in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Angola Soars with Manchester City
Special Olympics Angola unveils a thrilling partnership with Manchester City and global appliance group Midea to create a common football space in the city of Luanda
2 Min Read
On the Break: Namibia’s Moses Fredericks Makes His Mark
The pace was relentless, the shot clock unforgiving. Namibia’s Day 1 matchup against Germany revealed the intensity of 3x3 Basketball. Namibia’s Moses Fredericks rose to the challenge, contesting drives and staying active on the perimeter.
1 Min Read
Special Olympics and Soccerex Commit to Making Football Inclusive for All
Last month at Soccerex Miami, Special Olympics International and Soccerex signed their renewed four-year partnership agreement with a focus on their shared commitment to use football as a tool for inclusion.
2 Min Read
"They Make You Feel Different—It's Fantastic"
Special Olympics transforms lives through the power and joy of sport every day around the world.