Background Statement
Throughout history, people with intellectual disabilities (ID) have suffered from the worst forms of abuse, discrimination, and have been denied basic human needs - connection, health and hope for a better life. In 1968, Eunice Kennedy Shriver took a stand against injustices faced by people with ID and fought for inclusion, through the creation of Special Olympics. In 1969, Special Olympics Colorado (SOCO) joined in her fight to advocate and create lifelong opportunities for youth and adults with ID by combating complacency, ignorance and stigma through unique programs.
Now, over 50 years later, SOCO still provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with ID, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendships with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.