The organisation is based in Bryanston and is the South African branch of a worldwide organisation and movement.
In 1968, the movement got its start when the first International Special Olympics Games were held at Soldier Field, Chicago, USA. However, the concept of Special Olympics was born much earlier when American Eunice Kennedy Shriver started a day camp called Camp Shriver, for people with intellectual disabilities at her home in 1962.
Shriver believed that people with intellectual disabilities were far more capable than commonly believed and deserving of the same opportunities and experiences as others.
Using Camp Shriver as an example, Shriver promoted the concept of involvement in physical activity and competition opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.
As a branch of the worldwide organisation, Special Olympics SA aims to change the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through sport by promoting acceptance for all and fostering an understanding in communities.
Special Olympics SA currently has 40 642 registered athletes, 625 athletes between the ages of two to seven, 2 520 coaches and 1 160 registered volunteers.
For the Special Olympics World Summer Games, happening in Los Angeles in July this year, team South Africa will consist of 58 athletes with intellectual disabilities from the ages of 12 to 55. The team will participate in 10 different sporting codes and all nine provinces will be represented.
Some of the sports they will participate in include aquatics, basketball, equestrian and table tennis.
However, the cost of participating in the World Summer Games will cost Special Olympics SA R25 000 per athlete.
The organisation is appealing to the public for help in sponsoring athletes to attend the World Summer Games.
Details: 011 706 3323; www.facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsSouthAfrica
Do you know of another organisation or programme that is aiming to change lives through the power of sport? Tell Fourways Review about them in the comments below.
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