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 respected spokespeople in their communities.
Our athletes 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. They can become Health messengers, delivering important health education to their peers.
Many athletes choose to undergo training to learn presentation skills so they can help spread the message of Special Olympics to the general public and advocate for those with disabilities. Athlete Leadership training sessions are held periodically.
Health Messenger Training
February 8, 2024 Grand Forks, ND