North America
From Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s Backyard to the National Stage: Tim Gowen’s Life in Special Olympics
Only a handful of Special Olympics athletes have had the opportunity to meet the founder of Special Olympics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Even fewer athletes had the opportunity to compete in her backyard the year before Special Olympics even began. Luckily, for Tim Gowen, he was able to do both.
3 Min Read
Sports Illustrated Captured the Action at Virginia School Honored for Inclusion
On a day full of inclusion, education and sport, Sports Illustrated covered the ceremony when Bush Hill Elementary School in Alexandria, VA was named an Unified Champion School by Special Olympics.
1 Min Read
Insights from Focusing on the Invisible: David’s Perspective on Inclusive Health Research
In recognition of World Health Day earlier this month, Renee Dease met with David Duncan, Special Olympics Jamaica Health Messenger and Chairman of Special Olympics International Global Athlete Leadership Council.
3 Min Read
Saint Kitts and Nevis Joins Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
On Wednesday, 1 April 2026, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis formally committed to the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s efforts to expand opportunities for persons with intellectual disabilities.
2 Min Read
German-Born Stefanie Curtis Prepares to Compete at Special Olympics USA Games
Stefanie Curtis had a different path to Special Olympics. Growing up in Berlin, Germany, there was no local programming for Special Olympics, so she found other ways to stay active as an adolescent.
2 Min Read
FanSided Reports on Impact of Special Olympics Coaches in the Community
The first in a series of stories from FanSided about the power and impact of Special Olympics Coaches on athletes and the community.
1 Min Read
France To Face Senegal in Opening Match of the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026
[Paris, France – 16 April 2026] The road to the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 took a major step forward as the official tournament Draw Ceremony was held at the headquarters of the French Football Federation in Paris on 16 April.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes Advocate on Capitol Hill
From February 9 – 10, in Washington, D.C., Special Olympics athletes from 49 U.S. Programs attended more than 365 meetings with their members of Congress, advocating for continued partnership to support the organization’s work in health and education.
3 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
Redefining What’s Possible
In the crowd, family, friends, and fans cheer loudly because Jeff Greene has arrived at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games.
2 Min Read