Special Olympics

Special Olympics is the world's largest sports organization dedicated to empowering children and adults with intellectual disabilities through year-round athletic training and competition. Founded on July 20, 1968, by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the organization has grown to serve 5 million participants and Unified Sports partners across 172 countries.

The organization provides comprehensive sports training in a variety of Olympic-type sports, enabling individuals with intellectual disabilities to develop physical fitness, confidence, and competitive skills. Special Olympics programs operate at the grassroots level in communities worldwide, offering opportunities for athletes to train, compete, and achieve personal athletic goals.

Special Olympics is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and is led by Chairman Timothy Shriver and President and CEO David S Evangelista. The organization's programs serve both athletes with intellectual disabilities and Unified Sports partners, promoting inclusion and mutual respect through sports participation.

The mission of Special Olympics centers on providing year-round sports opportunities that build self-confidence, develop athletic skills, and foster social inclusion. Through its global network, Special Olympics continues to transform the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities by demonstrating their capabilities and potential through sport.