Inclusive Health
AJPH Supplement Spotlighting Special Olympics Health Programming Demonstrates How Inclusive Public Health Spaces Improve the Health of People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Implementing strategies to improve health outcomes in all communities requires public health spaces to include people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) at the table when it comes to policy, funding and research decisions.
2 Min Read
Move More, Live Healthier Lives: Special Olympics Health Messengers, Fitness Captains, and Coaches Inspiring Their Communities to Get Moving
On World Day for Physical Activity, we’re highlighting Athlete Leaders and a coach who have taken on a variety of leadership roles to empower athletes to stay active year-round. Get to know them!
6 Min Read
Tom Golisano Named to the Chronicle of Philanthropy's Top Philanthropists List
Tom Golisano has once again been named to the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s annual Philanthropy 50 list, ranking 12th among the nation’s leading donors and marking his fifth appearance on the Top 50 list.
1 Min Read
Teaching Health Through Food: Kayla’s Passion for Nutrition
In celebration of National Nutrition Month, Renee Dease met with Special Olympics Michigan staff member, Health Messenger, and athlete, Kayla Cornell, to talk about how she empowers Special Olympics athletes to build healthier habits through practical cooking skills and nutrition education.
3 Min Read
A Week of Impact: Showcasing Inclusive Health at Special Olympics Ireland Site Visits
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.
5 Min Read
5th World Association for Sport Management Conference Features Keynote Address from Special Olympics Chief of Health Operations
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.
1 Min Read
Finding Strength in Community: Heather’s Mental Health Journey
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.
3 Min Read
Healthier Bodies, Minds, and Communities: Celebrating National Recreational Sports and Fitness Day with the University of Wisconsin-Madison
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.
4 Min Read
Aged 29 Years, Selim Hears His Mother's Voice for the First Time
Special Olympics Bosnia and Herzegovina transformed the life of Selim Mujanović by securing access to a hearing aid
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Completes Georgetown University Innovation Hub Fellowship to Advance Young Athletes App
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.
2 Min Read