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 Athletes Announce NFL Draft Pick for Minnesota Vikings
Two athletes from Special Olympics Missouri and Special Olympics Kansas had the honor of co-announcing the 141st pick in the 2023 NFL Draft for the Minnesota Vikings. Richard Scott and Josh Alters, both passionate multi-sport athletes, were chosen to make the pick.
1 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes Compete in the Second Challenge Family Triathlon Series
The second annual Special Olympics European Triathlon Open Competition, as part of the Challenge Family Triathlon Series and hosted by Special Olympics Slovakia, took place this past weekend 18 – 22 May in Samorin, Slovakia.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Runners and Supporters Run the 127th Boston Marathon
On 17 April, Special Olympics runner Trent Hampton took part in the historic 127th Boston Marathon in Boston, Massachusetts.
2 Min Read
PMIEF Announces More Than US$5 Million Worth of Grants to Help Seven Youth-Focused Non-Profits Shape the Next Generation of Leaders
Through the partnership with PMIEF, SO Ukraine will work with an organization named Reigniting Inclusion Across Ukraine to train staff, coaches and athletes on program management and rebuild inclusive youth programming across Ukraine.
4 Min Read
Shimmie and Shake Your Way Into #InternationalDanceDay with Special Olympics Athletes
Join Special Olympics athletes as they celebrate International Dance Day on 29 April. The day is recognized around the world by the Dance Committee of the International Theater Institute who is the main partnership of the performing arts of United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Tune in to learn more about the Special Olympics Festival at the World Games with Natalie Ullrich
In this week’s episode, Josh and Novie spoke with Natalie Ullrich, senior manager of the Special Olympics Festival at the World Games.
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Special Olympics Slovakia Organizes First Ever Safeguarding Seminar
Special Olympics Slovakia organized its first ever Safeguarding seminar as part of the Special Olympics Operation Safeguard project, funded by Erasmus+, with 60 participants attending.
2 Min Read
Fundação Benfica Hosts First Stage of Special Champions League
Twelve football teams from across Europe participate in the EU-supported event.
2 Min Read
Engel & Völkers Renews Partnership with Special Olympics International
After celebrating more than $1 million in funds raised, the luxury real estate brand increases sponsorship commitment
1 Min Read
A Three-Decade-Long Friendship Celebrated in Coach Receiving Outstanding Coach Award
Coach Joe Bellini and Special Olympics athlete Will Smith have known each other for nearly 30 years. Their relationship isn’t the typical coach/athlete relationship because the connection runs so deep. Here is their story.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Actress Anna Sargent Breakout Role in Take Me Home at Sundance Film Festival
Special Olympics Florida athlete and actress Anna Sargent debuts her acting talents in the film Take Me Home, written and directed by Anna’s sister Liz Sargent, at the Sundance Film Festival as it hits the big screen for the first time.
1 Min Read
From the Island of Oahu To the Mainland of Berlin, Germany, Special Olympics Hawaii Athlete Will Officiate Bocce at World Games
Shavanna Mahoe has the distinction of being Hawaii’s first and only Special Olympics athlete who serves as a certified bocce official.
2 Min Read