News


Torch Run(ning) for our Athletes

The Law Enforcement Torch Run was back in Clermont, kicking off from Special Olympics Florida headquarters. 

Race Incentives

Events are just around the corner.  It's not too late to sign up to participate and receive some great prizes.

A wonderful night at Champions Gala

Some 400 guests turned out for the event at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, as we honored our award winners.

Chris Nikic Completes Boston Marathon

He continues to show the world that athletes with intellectual disabilities can do remarkable things, if they’re just given the chance.

A Great Day at Sunshine Bowl

This year’s event featured a flag football tournament, Punt, Pass & Kick contest, a cheer clinic and the Jack in the Club blackjack tournament.

How Special Olympics tackles emotional well-being worldwide

With the isolation and anxiety of a global COVID pandemic, Special Olympics has been working harder than ever to ensure the emotional well-being of its athletes.

Swim for Inclusion

Special Olympics Florida swim coach Lucky Meisenheimer hosted the fundraising event that was part of our Race for Inclusion campaign.

Miami Marlins pitcher goes to bat for inclusion

Anthony Bass, our first Champion Ambassador, recorded a 45-second promo urging viewers to become part of the Inclusion Revolution.

Brave in the Attempt, Episode 4

The latest edition of our podcast features Broward County athlete and stand up paddleboard champ Layla Crehan.

Shining the Light on Broward County Swimmers

The Sun-Sentinel in South Florida recently highlighted athletes who competed in the Broward County Swimming Competition.

Pasco flag football team’s dream comes true

The West Pasco Dolphins flag football will represent Florida at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando next year.  Community members like the Pasco Tax Collector and Heritage Springs Community have been generous in their donations to help cover the costs of transportation, hotel, food and more.

Brave in the Attempt, Episode 3

The latest edition of our podcast features legendary college football analyst and coach Lee Corso.

Leading Flag Football Organization Lends its Support

The Flag Football World Championship Tour has sanctioned our 2021 Sunshine Bowl, providing a high-profile endorsement from a recognized leader in the world of flag football.

Special Olympics leads the fight for inclusion

To mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, USA Today published a long piece on her fight to create a more inclusive and accepting world.  Eunice, the founder of Special Olympics, was inspired by her sister Rosemary, who had intellectual disabilities.

Training Day with the Tampa Bay Bucs

The Super Bowl champions hosted their annual Community Impact Day, welcoming Special Olympics Florida athletes and other nonprofit groups to their training camp.

Short Film Winner

Congratulations and a huge thank you to Grace Cowan, a rising sophomore at The First Academy in Orlando.

A paddleboard journey

Broward County athlete Layla Crehan attempted an 80-mile paddleboard event to raise money for cystic fibrosis.

The power of perseverance

What an incredible night! Chris Nikic took home two awards at The 2021 ESPYS, in New York City:  The Jimmy V Award for Perseverance and Best Athlete with a Disability.

Announcing two new locations

Milton and the University of Florida in Gainesville will both be hosting Race For Inclusion events on December 4.

Planting a dream

CBS Sunday Morning featured Caleb Prewitt as he pursues his own triathlon journey with the help of his mentor Chris Nikic.

Athlete Ambassador is example of inclusion

Tristen Bresnahan was featured on WESH 2 News (Orlando) discussing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Brave in the Attempt, Episode 2

The latest edition of our Special Olympics Florida podcast has just been released.

track star shows he can ‘do anything anybody else can do’

Being born with spina bifida, Homestead High senior Syrus Dawkins never let his condition keep him from enjoying the thrill of racing on a track.

One Year Countdown

Special Olympics Florida and Special Olympics USA Games staged a series of events around the state to tell athletes they were headed to the Games.

Special Olympics Florida earns coveted 4-star rating for eighth year in a row

Recognized for its strong financial health and commitment to accountability by Charity Navigator, Special Olympics Florida ranks in top 6% of charitable organizations rated nationwide.

Holiday Inn Club Vacations Treats Athlete to Resort Getaway

Special Olympics Florida athlete Roan Luallen and his family got the royal treatment before the recent State Tennis Championships. 

Special Olympics College Club at UF Named National Champions

Competing against colleges and universities from across the country, the Gators took home the top prize

Congratulations Chris!

Triathlete Chris Nikic won the prestigious Laureus Award for Sporting Moment of the Year!

In The News!

Sarasota’s ABC7 News at 7 interviewed Ken and Tim to highlight our new specialty license plate and how others can get involved in our year-round programs and initiatives.

Volunteers Help Us Offer Sports and Socialization Opportunities

Points of Light -- the world's largest organization dedicated to volunteer service -- showcases the work of Special Olympics Florida volunteers.

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