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What is Special Olympics?
Special Olympics is an international program of year-round sports training and athletic competition for more than one million children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Special Olympics Oath
Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.
Our mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities by giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.
Our goal is for all persons with intellectual disabilities to have the chance to become useful and productive citizens who are accepted and respected in their communities.
The benefits of participation in Special Olympics for people with intellectual disabilities include improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence, a more positive self-image, friendships, and increased family support. Special Olympics athletes carry these benefits with them into their daily lives at home, in the classroom, on the job, and in the community. Families who participate become stronger as they learn a greater appreciation of their athlete's talents.
Special Olympics believes that competition among those of equal abilities is the best way to test its athletes' skills, measure their progress and inspire them to grow. Special Olympics believes that its program of sports training and competition helps our athletes become physically fit and grow mentally, socially, and spiritually. Special Olympics believes that consistent training is required to develop sports skills. The Spirit of Special Olympics-skill, courage, sharing and joy transcends boundaries of geography, nationality, political philosophy, gender, age, race or religion.
For more information on Special Olympics of North Carolina contact:
Jonathan Batts
302 Willard Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 341-5876 or TTY Relay 711