Special Olympics Clubs – Bundaberg is a sports club based in Bundaberg, Australia. As part of the Special Olympics network, the club offers a range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability. The club's main goal is to provide a platform for these individuals to have fun, stay healthy, build self-esteem, exhibit courage, and make lasting friendships.
Established in 1976 in Australia, Special Olympics was created to support individuals with intellectual disabilities who were previously confined to institutions. While the club aims to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are not isolated or excluded from society, they rely on public support to achieve this goal.
As part of Special Olympics Australia, the club actively seeks to increase their reach and inclusivity. Currently, with only 3,000 athletes participating out of the approximate 850,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism, the club requires the assistance of volunteers and supporters to spread the joy of sport and build a strong community.
Special Olympics believes in the power of sport to create a better world, similar to the Olympics and Paralympics. However, Special Olympics focuses on year-round multi-sport programmes for individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing robust competition pathways, including the World Games, which are held on a four-year cycle in summer and winter sports.
It is important to note that an intellectual disability does not mean that an individual is incapable of learning or performing basic tasks. People with intellectual disabilities may simply require more time and support to succeed. Special Olympics encourages individuals to focus on their abilities and not be limited by others' expectations. The club believes that everyone deserves a chance to achieve their dreams, and participating in sports can help individuals uncover their hidden talents.
At Special Olympics Clubs – Bundaberg, the emphasis is on making abilities visible. The club believes that through sport, individuals with intellectual disabilities can showcase their talents and skills. By participating in sports, they gain a sense of achievement, pride, and inclusion within the community.
Join Special Olympics Clubs – Bundaberg in their mission to provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports and develop lifelong friendships. By supporting the club, you can make a positive impact on the lives of these individuals and contribute to a more inclusive society.