Special Olympics Colorado

Special Olympics Colorado is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing sports training and athletic competitions for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The organization is part of the larger Special Olympics movement, which is the world's largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities.

History and Mission

While Special Olympics was founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Special Olympics Colorado focuses on serving the local community within Colorado. The mission of Special Olympics Colorado is to provide year-round sports training and competition in Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This helps participants develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and build friendships with family members, other athletes, and the community.

Programs

Special Olympics Colorado offers several key programs tailored to different age groups and needs:

• Young Athletes: This program is designed for children ages 2 to 7, both with and without intellectual disabilities. It introduces basic sport skills like running, kicking, and throwing, aiming to enhance gross motor skills and prepare children for future sports participation. Young Athletes also focuses on improving social skills and enhancing the confidence of its participants.

• Unified Sports: Special Olympics Colorado integrates Unified Sports, which encourages social inclusion by bringing people with and without intellectual disabilities together on the same team. This fosters unity and mutual respect through shared sports experiences.

• Unified Champion Schools: This initiative transforms schools into inclusive environments by incorporating Special Olympics sports, promoting youth leadership, and whole-school engagement. It helps students develop social skills and become advocates for inclusion within their communities.

Impact and Achievements

Special Olympics Colorado has a significant impact on the lives of its participants and their families. For instance, its Young Athletes program has shown substantial improvements in gross motor skills and social interaction among children. Moreover, the organization's inclusive approach helps change societal perceptions about people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance and respect across communities.

Participation and Volunteerism

Special Olympics Colorado relies heavily on volunteer support to deliver its programs effectively. Hundreds of volunteers and coaches contribute annually to help athletes develop their skills and participate in competitions. The organization's growth is supported by a network of local volunteers who meet athletes at community levels, facilitating transformative experiences for both participants and volunteers alike.