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.
Special Olympics Celebrates Black History Month
Black History Month continues to honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans that have been long-overlooked and ignored not only in America, but around the world. Since 1976, the United States has celebrated Black History Month every February to acknowledge and promote these triumphs and help to amplify and support African American voices and communities around the US.
1 Min Read
‘Don’t be frightened and go for every shot!’
Competing against the best players in the world on one of the most iconic tennis courts was a major highlight for a group of Special Olympics tennis players selected to compete at the Players with Intellectual Impairments Championship at the recent Australian Open.
2 Min Read
Basketball Players On Unified Teams Swap Skills, ‘Learn Love’
Unified partners recount how they started playing with their teams and the friendships they formed along the way.
3 Min Read
Celebrating Dreams and Dedication: Sitthiphon Phisajarn
Sitthiphon Phisajarn‘s story of perseverance, passion, and determination to be able to compete alongside, and against, his twin brother at World Games Berlin 2023.
2 Min Read
Schools Should Boost Inclusion of Students With Disabilities, Special Olympics Leader Says
The following is an excerpt from Education Week’s article, Schools Should Boost Inclusion of Students With Disabilities, Special Olympics Leader Says.
1 Min Read
Remembering Tom Songster
This month we are remembering Tom Songster, Ph.D., an early pioneer of the Special Olympics movement—known for his dedication and commitment to people with intellectual disabilities—and for helping develop Special Olympics into a leading global sports and humanitarian organization.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Albania Undertakes Bold Mission
“We’re dreaming big and trying to act big”
4 Min Read
One Boy, One Village at a Time
Witness Aaron Banda's journey from being chained to becoming a valued part of his family and community.
1 Min Read
Dr. Carlos Chacón's Visionary Journey
Ecuadorian pioneer has brought improved eye health and vision care to Special Olympics athletes for over two decades thanks to support of Lions Clubs International Foundation
3 Min Read
Global State of Inclusion in Education: A Letter, an Invitation and a Challenge
For International Day of Education, Special Olympics’ has issued its first annual letter on the Global State of Inclusion in Education.
1 Min Read
Singleton Siblings Find Passion and Support for Each Other Through Special Olympics
Alex Singleton has laced up his cleats countless times throughout his amateur and professional football career. It’s part of his well-honed pre-game routine, something that does not change from game to game. But on December 3, 2023, there was a change. A noticeable and meaningful one.
4 Min Read
Athlete or Artist? Dea Çaushi Can Do It All
Albania’s multi-talent does not need to choose between scoring three-pointers and playing Vivaldi. She embraces and excels in both equally.
3 Min Read