Special Olympics – Canberra is a sports club based in Canberra, Australia that is part of the global Special Olympics network. The club provides a range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability. Their mission is to create an inclusive environment where individuals can have fun, improve their health, build self-esteem, demonstrate courage, and make friends.
Special Olympics Australia, of which Special Olympics – Canberra is a part, is a part of the global Special Olympics movement that has been transforming the lives of people with intellectual disabilities for nearly 50 years. The movement was pioneered by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister to US President John F Kennedy, and Rosemary, who had an intellectual disability. Today, Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes in 177 countries.
Special Olympics began in Australia in 1976 when many individuals with an intellectual disability were residing in institutions. While this is no longer the norm in Australia, the organisation continues to seek public support to provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports. By supporting Special Olympics – Canberra, individuals can help open the door to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for marginalised and isolated members of the community.
With 850,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism in Australia, and only 3,000 athletes currently participating in Special Olympics Australia, the club relies on the support of the community to expand its reach and spread the joy of sport and community. Individuals can support Special Olympics – Canberra by making donations, volunteering their time, or participating in the various sports programmes offered by the club.
Special Olympics – Canberra is part of a larger global movement, similar to the Olympics and Paralympics, that believes in the power of sport to create a better world. While the Olympics and Paralympics mainly focus on elite athletes, Special Olympics is a year-round multi-sports programme for individuals with intellectual disabilities of all capabilities. The club provides robust competition pathways, including their World Games, which are hosted on a four-year cycle in summer and winter sports.
An intellectual disability refers to difficulty in performing what are considered basic tasks, such as reading, handling money, or using public transport. However, it does not mean that individuals with intellectual disabilities cannot learn or succeed. They may simply learn differently or require more time and support. Special Olympics – Canberra aims to make ability visible by providing individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to showcase their talents through sports.
In conclusion, Special Olympics – Canberra is a sports club in Canberra, Australia that provides sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. By supporting the club, individuals can help promote inclusion, personal achievement, and community for individuals with intellectual disabilities in the greater Canberra area.