About Special Olympics Idaho
At Special Olympics Idaho, we believe in the transformative power of inclusion. Every day, we empower people with intellectual disabilities across Idaho to discover their strengths, build lasting friendships, and achieve more than they thought possible—on and off the field.
Through sports training, health screenings, community building, and leadership development, we serve over 1,500 athletes annually in every corner of the state. With the support of volunteers, families, and partners, we’re creating a more connected, accessible, and compassionate Idaho—where everyone belongs.
Mission
The mission of Special Olympics Idaho is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
What We Do
At Special Olympics Idaho, we provide year-round programs that go far beyond the playing field—delivering life-changing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to grow, compete, and belong.
Sports & Competition
We offer Olympic-style sports like track & field, basketball, bocce, swimming, and powerlifting for athletes of all ages and skill levels. Competitions span from local events to our State Summer Games, building confidence, teamwork, and community.
Young Athletes Program
Our Young Athletes program is designed for children ages 2–7 with and without intellectual disabilities. Through fun, inclusive play and basic motor skills activities, children build coordination, social interaction, and early confidence in a supportive environment. Sessions take place in schools, child care centers, and local communities.
Inclusive Health
We provide free health screenings in areas such as dental, vision, hearing, and physical fitness through our statewide health outreach. In 2025, we introduced a mobile changing station, ensuring events are more accessible and respectful of every athlete’s dignity and independence.
Community Access
We serve athletes in every corner of Idaho—including rural and tribal areas—by removing barriers to participation. This includes accessible transportation, mobile infrastructure, and local programming that brings opportunity directly to communities.
Unified Schools
Through Unified Champion Schools, students with and without intellectual disabilities play, lead, and grow together. These programs create inclusive school climates, reduce bullying, and foster long-term friendships.
Athlete Leadership
We equip athletes to lead within our movement and beyond. Whether speaking at events, serving as Health Messengers, or representing Idaho at national forums, our athletes shape the future of Special Olympics in meaningful ways.
Join the Movement
From toddlers learning to catch a ball to adult athletes representing their communities on the podium, inclusion starts here. Whether you volunteer, coach, donate, or cheer from the stands, you’re helping Idaho become a place where everyone belong