Special Olympics Missouri serve the largest population of individuals with a disability - those with intellectual disabilities. Comprehensive, Total Athlete Programs include sports training and competition, health and wellness, leadership and youth/student engagement.
The benefits of participation in training and competition are substantial for its athletes, with an overwhelming consensus among athletes, coaches and family members that there is significant improvement in athletes' sense of self, social skills and social interactions due to their participation in Special Olympics.
Unified Sports are designed to bring together equal numbers of athletes with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team with others of similar skill levels.
Health and Wellness is a critical component of Special Olympics programs. Through training, health exams, and proper nutrition, we provide inclusive health options to people with intellectual disabilities, their families, and the health community.
Athlete Leadership Programs teach individuals with and without intellectual disabilities how to achieve success, joy and acceptance as respected leaders and spokespeople in their communities.
Unified Champion Schools promote social inclusion by bringing together young people with and without intellectual disabilities on sports teams through inclusive student clubs and by fostering youth leadership. At its core, this strategy is about unifying all students- with and without disabilities-using sports as a catalyst for social inclusion and attitude and behavioral change.
Young Athletes is a fun way for children to develop cognitive and relational skills while being active and establishing healthy habits for the future.