We are the world’s largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities: with 4.4 million athletes in 170 countries — and millions more volunteers and supporters. We are also a global and social movement.
Through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths and abilities, skills, and success. The athletes find joy, confidence and fulfillment — on the playing field and in life. They also inspire people in their communities and elsewhere to open their hearts to a wider world of human talents and potential. Please view the following video to see the full spectrum of our activities.
Special Olympics Southern California offers 12 sports across 4 seasons, serving nearly 30,000 athletes in community and school-based programs. It also offers opportunities for athletes to improve their overall health and wellness, gain leadership skills and much more. These programs are supported by a passionate community including more than 70 employees, thousands of volunteers, SOSC’s valued partners and donors, and the community at large.
"Before Special Olympics I had anxiety attacks, I was sad, and I wasn't in a good place for me. Now I have done so many things with Special Olympics and I barely have any anxiety. Someone at Special Olympics will always be there for me to see if I am okay and I am so happy with Special Olympics." - Polly
"Special Olympics is a big part of my life. It has also taught me how to be a leader and good example to other athletes. Special Olympics has given me opportunities to travel out of town, participate in competitions, to make new friends and see old friends." - Eric
"I like to win and I like to play Bowling...breaking pins and getting stikes! Bowling is my favorite." - Mary
"Special Olympics has given me the opportunity to compete in sports that I never thought I would get to have growing up!" - Bryan
"My favorite moment was when I got my very first medal. Getting a medal and doing sports through Special Olympics allowed me to come a long way. I had tears coming down my face and I was in shock because I had never won a medal before in my life." - Penny
The mission of Special Olympics Southern California is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for 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.
Our vision is to promote acceptance, inclusion, and well‐being for people with intellectual disabilities through sports.
Organization name
Special Olympics Southern California
Tax id (EIN)
95-4538450
Operating Budget
Large ($1,000,000+)
Mission Category
Individuals with Disabilities
City Council District
District 5
Address
1600 Forbes Way, Suite 200Long Beach, CA, US,
Los Angeles, CA, US,
Orange, CA, US,
Riverside, CA, US,
San Diego, CA, US,