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 North America to Host Regional Athlete Congress for the First Time
Special Olympics North America will gather athletes March 8 – 13, 2026, at the Special Olympics Michigan headquarters for the first-ever Special Olympics North America Athlete Congress.
2 Min Read
Special Oklahoma Athlete Stuns with Singing and Speed
Twelve delegations in total will soon march into Devon Park, signaling the start of the parade of athletes.
3 Min Read
Organizational Development, The Heartbeat of Inclusion
Behind the scenes, another kind of work is quietly shaping these moments, Organizational Development (OD).
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Senegal Celebrates World Youth Skills Day and International Youth Day
Special Olympics Senegal brought together athletes, families, partners, and supporters to mark World Youth Skills Day and International Youth Day.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Presented with the Fair Play Award for Peace 2025
The President of the European Fair Play Movement and the Italian National Fair Play Committee and Panathlon Wallonie-Bruxelles awarded Special Olympics the Fair Play Award for Peace 2025.
1 Min Read
2025 SONA Softball Championship Start Off with Exhibition Game Between Two Elite Foes
It’s a humid sunny day in Oklahoma City at Devon Park. The sun shines from the northwest corner of OGE Energy Field, with shade covering a part of the third baseline.
2 Min Read
Families Take the Lead
Families have always been central to the Special Olympics movement, yet their voices have often been underrepresented in organizational decisions.
3 Min Read
Nothing Stronger Than Ohana
Twins, Luke and Jaycie arrived together, just a minute apart, but their paths unfolded differently.
3 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.
And the Rising Star Award Goes To…
Special Olympics Rhode Island coach Lindsey Smith has always been drawn to sports.
3 Min Read
Serving Up Inclusion: Badminton for All in New Zealand
One of badminton’s greatest features is that it truly is a sport for all. Partners in the sport of badminton recognized this important feature in New Zealand.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Announces Draw for First-Ever Unified 3x3 Basketball World Cup in December
200 athletes from around the world will compete in this historic event.
3 Min Read