Special Olympics is a movement that transforms lives by inspiring inclusion, understanding and respect for people of all abilities, both on the playing field and in communities across the state and around the world. Beau Doherty will talk about Special Olympics Connecticut, which provides year-round sports training and competitions for over 12,000 athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities) and Unified Sports® partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities who are the athletes’ teammates).
Beau has been with Special Olympics for more than 39 years beginning when, at the former Paul A. Dever State School in Taunton, Mass., he witnessed the isolation and separation that the intellectual disability community experienced. He is Godfather of Special Olympics Unified Sports.
The program also brings athletes with and without intellectual disabilities together to play sports, gain physical fitness and develop friendships
Special Olympics Unified Sports® is also offered in 95% of public high schools across the state, as well as middle and elementary schools.
Connecticut athletes also have opportunities to compete globally – at Special Olympics’ USA and World Games.
The group also promotes a healthy lifestyle by offering free health screenings at events, and providing participants with the education and resources to improve their sports performance and enhance their overall health and fitness.