Our athletes
Athletes are the heart of Special Olympics. Our athletes are children and adults with intellectual disabilities from all around the world. They are finding success, joy and friendship as part of our global community. They're also having lots of fun!
Intellectual disabilities happen in all cultures, races, and countries. The goal of the global Special Olympics movement is to reach out to the almost 200 million people in the world with intellectual disabilities. Through sports, our athletes are seeing themselves for their abilities, not disabilities. Their world is opened with acceptance and understanding. They become confident and empowered by their accomplishments. They are also making new friends, as part of the most inclusive community on the planet - a global community that is growing every day.
There are more than 3,200 Special Olympics BC athletes of all ages, from two to 90, and a wide range of abilities. They train and have fun year-round in 55 different communities.
Our volunteers
Our volunteers believe that sport has the power to create joy and unity in society. They know this because they've seen it happen again and again. They are coaches, behind-the-scenes organizers, planners, leaders, event managers, officials, and more. They are role models and character builders. Every day and in every way, they help empower our athletes through quality sports training and competitions. Our coaches and volunteers inspire our athletes; in turn, they are inspired as they witness the transformative power of sports.
Our families
Parents, guardians, caregivers, and friends of Special Olympics BC athletes play an important role in each athlete’s success. Families give our athletes the kind of love, support, and encouragement that no one else can. Special Olympics is a support network that brings families together in a caring, positive way.
Our sponsors
Our life-changing programs, competitions, and health initiatives would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors. Special Olympics BC is committed to ensuring that no athlete will ever be denied the opportunity to participate because of finances, and our sponsors make this vision a reality. By choosing to support Special Olympics BC, our sponsors show their commitment to making a difference, and they make a powerful statement of respect and inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Our celebrity supporters
Special Olympics BC is fortunate to have the backing of many noted provincial celebrities and sport organizations who generously share their time and voices to help our athletes and programs. By proudly standing with Special Olympics athletes, they help transform the way the world sees people with intellectual disabilities and create more inclusive communities.