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.
Women at the Heart of Special Olympics: Celebrating Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women throughout history who have shaped our past and are shaping our future.
1 Min Read
Youth Leadership in Africa is Making News
From Regional summits to global platforms, young Special Olympics leaders are not waiting for change; they are leading it.
2 Min Read
Athlete Leaders Step Up for a Historic Regional Athlete Congress
Talk a little with the athlete leaders going to the Special Olympics North America Athlete Congress in Michigan, and you will notice they have some things in common.
4 Min Read
Women Play, Women Lead
There are 50,739 Athlete Leaders worldwide, with 34.6% more men serving in these roles than women. The Women Play, Women Lead initiative is working to address this issue.
7 Min Read
Special Olympics’ New Children’s Book Series Brings to Life Remarkable Athlete Journeys
Illustrated stories invite young readers to the value of inclusion through sports by joining athletes Anca, Eros, Marcel and Stephanie on their journey to World Winter Games Turin 2025.
3 Min Read
Inclusion at Work: Behind the Scenes at The Coca-Cola Company
Special Olympics Chief Inspiration Officer Loretta Claiborne will do anything it takes to cross the finish line, and her unwavering advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities reflects that same determination.
1 Min Read
Unified by Sport: Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Launches Powerful Documentary Trailer Ahead of Turin 2025 One-Year Anniversary
Featuring four athletes’ journeys, this EU-supported film showcases the impact of Special Olympics and the enduring legacy of the World Winter Games
4 Min Read
The High Rates of Mental Health Struggles
New research from Special Olympics Health, authored by SOI Chief Health Officer, Dr. Dimitri Christakis was published in JAMA Network Open titled: Anxiety, Depression, and Care Barriers in Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
1 Min Read
Special Olympics Unified with Refugees Initiative Expands with European Union Support
Inclusive sports events in Cyprus, Italy, Slovakia, and Spain foster hope and belonging for refugees and people with intellectual disabilities
1 Min Read
Healthier Bodies, Minds, and Communities: Celebrating National Recreational Sports and Fitness Day with the University of Wisconsin-Madison
Through year-round sport training, competitions, and inclusive fitness opportunities, Special Olympic athletes are empowered to improve their health, build self-confidence, and experience belonging in their communities.
4 Min Read
Men’s and Women’s Teams Selected to Compete in the Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026
On 19 February, Special Olympics, Special Olympics France, and the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 Local Organizing Committee welcomed over 200 guests and partners to the historic Paris City Hall to announce the 24 teams selected to compete in the Cup.
2 Min Read
Magnús Captures the Spirit of Sport in Cyprus
When Sports Directors gathered in Cyprus for the Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Sports Conference in October 2025, the focus was on strengthening sport, expanding opportunity, and shaping the future of Special Olympics. For Magnús, the conference represented something more personal, a meaningful next chapter in his own journey.
2 Min Read