The Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organization for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The organization has over 4.4 million athletes in 170 countries, as well as millions of volunteers and supporters. The Special Olympics states that their mission is to “provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them the opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship”. Most importantly, Special Olympics strives to encourage acceptance and inclusion of all people.
On Friday, May 3, hundreds of athletes and volunteers attended the 50th annual San Luis Obispo County Special Olympics at Cuesta College. Athletes competed in a variety of events, including the shot put, softball toss, bocce ball, basketball, and track events. By participating in these sports, athletes experienced athletic competition, social interaction, and community involvement.
Special Olympics is a great way to get involved in the community and they are always looking for more volunteers! San Luis Obispo High School student senior Isabella Andreatta was one of the many volunteers who helped out at the event on Friday.
“It was filled with inclusive events and activities. Students from the district came together to celebrate one another’s skill and accomplishment. It was a great opportunity to bond with my buddy, Alexis Alvarez, and her classmates!” said Andreatta.
Source: https://www.sosc.org/sloc