The mission of Special Olympics is to offer athletic competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities that are similar to the Olympics. Athletes compete in different catagories and win medals as they do in the Olympics. While having fun, the athletes also have the opportunity to develop physically and emotionally, as well as develop friendships.
Special Olympics serves almost 5,300 special athletes each year, many of whom partner with others in the competitions. It holds more than 50 tournaments annually in 21 different sports.