$1,710
Raised of $5,000
Children and adults with intellectual disabilities inspire us daily at Special Olympics events worldwide. Whether individuals have Fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, or another intellectual disability, they are accepted, welcomed, and celebrated at Special Olympics Arizona. SOAZ is a place where individuals have an opportunity to participate in their communities and develop belief in themselves. Special Olympics programs provide a gateway to empowerment, competence, acceptance, and joy; the lessons learned in Special Olympics also impact their life skills. People with intellectual disabilities are found everywhere, without regard to race, religion, political affiliation, culture, economics, or social class. Their positive spirit, determination to succeed, and innate human decency make them powerful ambassadors for all people society routinely undervalues, generally ignores, or even shuns. In Special Olympics, the athletes are the heart of the movement. At no cost to any athlete to join or participate, Special Olympics Arizona offers training and competition opportunities in Olympic-type sports, advocacy resources, health screenings, and so much more for athletes 8 years or older.