Through sports training and competitions, Special Olympics helps
people with intellectual disabilities achieve joy, acceptance
and success. They gain the confidence that comes with
achievement. They feel empowered. Our Athlete Leadership
Programs can take athletes even farther -- as leaders and
spokespeople respected in their communities. Special Olympics
athlete David Egan displayed confidence and leadership as he
testified before a Senate committee on the value of employment
for people with intellectual disabilities. Exploring New
Challenges As Special Olympics athletes gain in confidence and
feel empowered, they often seek new challenges. They want to
build on their successes, including their social skills. They
can become mentors for other athletes. They can train to become
coaches and officials. They can also move toward a more public
role as a speaker or spokesperson, telling audiences and
journalists about the remarkable changes that Special Olympics
helped bring to their lives. Special Olympics Athlet