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.
Propelling “Activa Mente”: The Story of Special Olympics Chile
During the pandemic, Special Olympics Chile coordinated with Chile's National Ministry of Education to create a virtual physical education curriculum for students of all abilities.
2 Min Read
Partnering on Behalf of Disability Inclusion: The Story of AMEXCO, an Organizational Partner
Special Olympics Mexico has partnered with AMEXCO, a Mexican education organization, to train teachers across the country in inclusive education practices.
1 Min Read
Creating a Strong Virtual Network: The Story of Nemanja, a Youth Leader
During the pandemic, online networks helped Special Olympics Serbia Youth Leaders stay connected and spread the movement for inclusion.
1 Min Read
Advocating Inclusion: The Story of Sahil and His Mother
Sahil's mother has watched her son Sahil, who has Down Syndrome, grow into a confident and social Youth Leader since Play Unified: Learn Unified was introduced to his school.
2 Min Read
Bonding through Walk and Talks: The Story of Morocco
Special Olympics Morocco is meshing inclusion efforts with Moroccan culture through weekly "Walk and Talks" with athletes and Unified partners.
2 Min Read
Changing Views of Self and Others: The Story of Shiyu, a Youth Leader
Special Olympics China Athlete and Youth Leader Shiyu reflects on the impact of Unified Sports on her life.
3 Min Read
Hosting the 2022 Special Olympics World Winter Games: The Story of the City of Kazan
Play Unified: Learn Unified sustains momentum in Russia as Kazan prepares to host the World Winter Games in January 2022.
1 Min Read
Thriving in a Refugee Camp: The Story of Doctor, an Athlete
Doctor, an athlete in Kenya's Kakuma Refugee Camp, has grown as a teammate, leader, and friend thanks to the Play Unified: Learn Unified initiative.
3 Min Read
Vote - Chris Nikic Nominated For 2021 Espy Awards: Best Athlete With A Disability, Men's Sports
Chris Nikic has been nominated for an ESPY for Best Athlete With A Disability, Men's Sports.
1 Min Read
Juneteenth 2021
U.S. President Joe Biden signed a law making Juneteenth a national holiday on 17 June, 2021. Celebrated on June 19th of each year, it commemorates the time when slaves in Texas learned they had gained freedom two years earlier by the Emancipation Proclamation issued during the Civil War. Historically, the day has been recognized by African Americans as the moment that slavery was fully abolished.
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Justin & Caraline’s Story
Justin and Caraline met through Special Olympics New York Coach Brian Tenety’s Unified basketball team in high school. Today, they carry on his legacy of inclusion as teammates and friends—on and off the court.
3 Min Read
Special Olympics Athlete Breaks Employment Barriers in Romania!
Oana Rotar, a 29-year-old athlete with Special Olympics Romania, made history earlier this year when she became the first woman with Down syndrome to be employed in the country’s public administration.
2 Min Read