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.
In Memory of Dikembe Mutombo
With heavy hearts, the Special Olympics global community is remembering the empowering legacy of Dikembe Mutombo, our longtime supporter and champion of rights for people with intellectual disabilities.
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Why Are People Using the R-Word Again?
The following is an excerpt from Mashable’s article, “Why are people using the R-word again,” which details the ways social media has led to a rise in the use of the R-word.
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Special Olympics’ Chief Health Officer on Championing Inclusive Health Care
The following is an excerpt from McKinsey Health Institute’s article, “Special Olympics’ Chief Health Officer on championing inclusive health care,” which includes an interview on Special Olympics’ extensive work to promote health equity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
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Beyond Borders: Special Olympics Unified with Refugees and Lions Clubs International Foundation Partner to Empower Refugee Youth
On this episode of Inclusion Revolution Radio, host Novie Craven welcomes Rebecca Daou, Lions Clubs International Foundation Executive Administrator, and Gerald Mballe, Special Olympics Unified with Refugees Advisor, to spotlight global initiatives in support of youth refugees.
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How Special Olympics is Powering Inclusive Sport with the Help of Sport Partnerships Around the World
A new report from Special Olympics reveals how a surge in new sport partnerships is helping to power the spread of global inclusion.
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How Special Olympics Kickstarted the Push for Better Disability Data
The following is an excerpt from STAT News’ article, “How Special Olympics kickstarted the push for better disability data,” on Special Olympics’ continuous work to better healthcare for people with intellectual disabilities.
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Special Olympics Says #ThanksCoach to All Special Olympics Coaches on ICCE Global Coaches’ Day
On International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE) Global Coaches Day, Special Olympics is saying a loud and heartfelt #ThanksCoach to every one of our coaches around the world. Today is the perfect opportunity to highlight the fantastic work our coaches do every single day.
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A Journey of Inclusion and Connection
This past spring, Special Olympics Youth Leaders Britany and Denisher embarked on a journey that would change their lives forever.
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PS Profiles Differences between Paralympics and Special Olympics
Writer Kristine Thomason notes the similarities between the two organizations but emphasizes the key differences and the need to use correct language when describing the work of each organization.
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The True Beauty of Cape Town
Eltheo and Charl aimed to create a soccer club for 14–16-year-old girls, hoping to inspire school-going youth by showing them there is a future and that they can succeed if they set their minds to something.
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EsmeeAnne Becomes First Special Olympics Athlete from Europe to Complete a 70.3 IRONMAN
On 1 September 2024, Special Olympics Netherlands athlete EsmeeAnne de Meulmeester ran, swam and cycled her heart out to complete a half IRONMAN in Duisburg, Germany.
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Special Olympics Jamaica Athlete Named to Global Athlete Leadership Role
Special Olympics Jamaica athlete David Duncan's thoughtful demeanor and strong leadership skills are large reasons he finds himself as the newly named chairperson for the Global Athlete Leadership Council (GALC).
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