What is Special Olympics?

 

What is Special Olympics?
 

Special Olympics is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition. 

Special Olympics offers children and adults with intellectual disabilities year-round training and competition in 26 Olympic-type summer and winter sports. There is no charge to participate in Special Olympics.

Special Olympics currently serves more than three million person with intellectual disabilities in more than 200 programs in more than 150 countries. Currently, Special Olympics Iowa serves nearly 11,000 Iowans with intellectual disabilities, participants and Unified Sports Partners.  

Special Olympics World Games were held in Ireland in 2003 and Japan in 2005 and, in 2007 China hosted the World Summer Games. The 2009 World Winter Games were held in Boise, Idaho. 

Children and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. 

They grow mentally, socially and spiritually and, through their activities, exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm, enjoy the rewards of friendship and ultimately discover not only new abilities and talents but "their voices" as well.

(Source: www.soiowa.org.) 

 

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