Health

A weeklong series of site visits across Ireland highlighted innovative partnerships, athlete led initiatives, and institutional leadership advancing inclusive health for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Earlier this month, Special Olympics joined global sport leaders, researchers, and practitioners from around the world at the 5th World Association for Sport Management (WASM) Conference, held 3 – 6 March in Cape Town, South Africa. Under the theme “Global Visions, Local Actions: Innovation and Sustainability in Sport Management,” the conference fostered dialogue on sport governance, innovation, sustainability, and the social impact of sport, creating a collaborative space to exchange ideas and explore approaches to innovation and sustainability in sport management.

In light of new research from Special Olympics Health published in JAMA Network Open, Renee Dease, a longstanding member of the Special Olympics movement, sat down with Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete and Health Messenger, Heather Holland, to talk about mental health, stigma, and the power of community.

New research from Special Olympics Health, authored by SOI Chief Health Officer, Dr. Dimitri Christakis was published in JAMA Network Open titled: Anxiety, Depression, and Care Barriers in Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Through year-round sport training, competitions, and inclusive fitness opportunities, Special Olympic athletes are empowered to improve their health, build self-confidence, and experience belonging in their communities.

This episode features an inspiring conversation between host Novie Craven and Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics. With nearly five decades of dedication to the movement, Mary shares her extraordinary journey, the evolution of Special Olympics and her vision for a future rooted in dignity, opportunity and athlete-centered leadership.

Special Olympics Bosnia and Herzegovina transformed the life of Selim Mujanović by securing access to a hearing aid

On December 11, 2025, leaders from the Special Olympics Early Childhood Development team successfully completed a 13-week Fellowship with the Georgetown University Thrive Center’s Innovation Hub.

Families are at the heart of Special Olympics, championing inclusion, building community, and driving impact every day.

Families—parents, caregivers, siblings, and other supporters—play a major role in the Special Olympics movement.