Learn About Us
About Our Organization
Special Olympics Oregon is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization incorporated in the state of Oregon to provide sports training and athletic competition for persons with intellectual disabilities. We raise the majority of funds locally through sponsorships, private donations and special events that support our 30 Local Programs across Oregon.
Special Olympics Oregon is accredited by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) and responsible for following the policies and rules established by SOI in the delivery of services in Oregon. It is known as a Program of SOI. A volunteer Board of Directors provides policy decisions and long-range planning for Special Olympics Oregon. The Board employs a staff of people to implement the day-to-day operations.
Our Mission & Vision
Our Mission
Special Olympics Oregon provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children, youth and adults living 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.
Our Vision
Our vision is an inclusive world for all, driven by the power of sport, through which people with intellectual disabilities live active, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement
We are committed to building inclusive communities where people of all abilities, backgrounds, identities, and experiences feel welcomed, respected, and empowered. Our work is guided by the belief that diversity makes us stronger, equity ensures fairness, and inclusion creates true belonging—on the playing field and beyond.
Did You Know? Special Olympics Oregon is Empowering the State’s Largest Disability Community – at No Cost to Families.
We support more than 5,000 Oregonians with intellectual disabilities each year through free sports, education, and health programs. Our programming is made possible by up to 10,000 volunteers each year, donors, sponsors, foundations, and event participants.
Through the power and joy of sport, we focus on and appreciate all that our athletes can do. When that happens, attention to their disabilities fades away. They become more involved in their communities. And they explore new ways to show who they really are. We serve children and adults from age 2 – 108 living with intellectual disabilities in every hometown across Oregon – and cost is never a barrier as programs are free to the participants. Check out what’s happening in your backyard.
Learn More About Our Programs
Year-round training and competition in 11 Olympic-style sports, with skills that athletes gain on the playing field carrying directly into their everyday lives
Promoting acceptance and respect through sports with Unified Champion Schools, a unique program for children with and without disabilities in K-12 schools
9390
Athletes
272
Unified Partners
483
Young Athletes
10
Sports Offered
398
Coaches
8953
Volunteers
27
Regional Competitions
137
Healthy Athlete Screenings