Special Olympics Canada

Special Olympics Canada is a national nonprofit organization founded in 1969, dedicated to enriching the lives of Canadians with intellectual disabilities through sport. The organization is part of the global Special Olympics movement, which aims to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in various Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Mission

Special Olympics Canada's mission is to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities by fostering self-confidence and social skills through sport. This is achieved by providing opportunities for participants to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and share their gifts and skills in a supportive environment.

Programs

The organization operates in all provinces and territories across Canada, offering a wide range of sports and programs to athletes of all ages and abilities. Athletes participate in local sport clubs and are supported by more than 19,000 volunteers, including over 14,000 trained coaches. Special Olympics Canada has grown to serve more than 40,000 registered athletes involved in daily year-round programs.

Impact

Special Olympics Canada is not only a sports organization but also a catalyst for social change. It helps build confidence and self-esteem among athletes, contributes to healthier lifestyles through lifelong physical fitness, and plays a crucial role in creating a more inclusive society by changing attitudes and strengthening communities.

Funding and Partnerships

Special Olympics Canada relies on financial support from corporate sponsorships, fundraising efforts, government funding, and individual donations. Notable partnerships, such as with Coca-Cola, which has been a founding global partner since 1968, contribute significantly to the organization's activities and mission.

History

The first Special Olympics event in Canada was held in Toronto in 1969. Since then, the organization has expanded nationwide, becoming a significant presence in the lives of Canadians with intellectual disabilities.

Competitions

Canadian athletes have the opportunity to participate in national competitions, held every two years, alternating between summer and winter games. Successful athletes may be selected for the Special Olympics World Games, which take place following the national games, allowing them to compete alongside athletes from over 150 countries.

Athlete's Oath

Special Olympics athletes around the world, including those in Canada, abide by the official athlete's oath: "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt," introduced by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968. This oath encapsulates the spirit of resilience and courage that defines the Special Olympics movement.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special_Olympics_Canada [2] https://www.specialolympics.org/programs/north-america/canada [3] https://media.specialolympics.org/resources/leading-a-program/program-profiles/SONA/Canada-FactSheet-2024.pdf [4] https://www.charityintelligence.ca/charity-details/868-special-olympics-canada [5] https://www.coca-cola.com/ca/en/offerings/our-company/our-partners/special-olympics-canada