Unified Champion Schools
Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity
All youth deserve the chance to learn, lead, and thrive. The Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity is committing US$11 million to the Special Olympics Global Center for Inclusion in Education. Through this partnership, we are proud to continue to scale a movement dedicated to building more inclusive schools and societies worldwide. Together, we are shaping a future where every young person is valued, celebrated, and belongs.
The Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity Pledges US$11m to Special Olympics International to Expand Inclusive Education Globally
[Abu Dhabi, UAE – September 25, 2025] The Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity has announced an US$11 million grant to the Abu Dhabi-based Special Olympics Global Center for Inclusion in Education to significantly expand its Unified Champion Schools (UCS) initiative, a transformative program that advances social inclusion for youth with and without intellectual disabilities.
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And the Rising Star Award Goes To…
Special Olympics Rhode Island coach Lindsey Smith has always been drawn to sports.
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Youth Empowered, Leaders Inspired: Jordan Schubert
Youth Empowered, Leaders Inspired is a storytelling series that highlights the journeys of individuals who got their start with Special Olympics at a young age—and never looked back.
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Special Olympics Announces the 2025 – 2027 Global Youth Leadership Council
In celebration of International Youth Day, Special Olympics is proud to announce the newly selected 2025 – 2027 Global Youth Leadership Council (GYLC).
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Special Olympics Showcases Inclusion and Innovation at AAIDD 2025
Members of the Special Olympics International Health and Unified Champion Schools (UCS) teams attended and presented at the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) Conference from 23 – 25 June 2025.
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Bosnia & Herzegovina Pledges Support for Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion
Landmark agreement aims to empower youth with intellectual disabilities and expand access to inclusive education and sports
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SONA Recognizes Outstanding Coaches Throughout Region
Throughout Special Olympics North America, more than 116,000 dedicated individuals donate their time and expertise as Special Olympics coaches.
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Faces of Inclusion: Raising Yilu
Follow the inspiring journey of Zhao Yilu, a Special Olympics East Asia athlete.
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From the Classroom to the World Stage
Follow along as Wang Chang provides a look into his life as he prepares for the Global Youth Leadership Summit.
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