Fact Sheet ~ Special Olympics Southern California
Special Olympics Southern California has been changing lives through the power of sport for more than 40 years. Founded in 1969 by Olympic decathlon gold medalist Rafer Johnson, Special Olympics Southern California offers year-round sports training programs and competitions for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organization. The Southern California Chapter covers a geographic region encompassing 11 counties and extends from San Luis Obispo and Bakersfield to San Diego.
Special Olympics Programs are offered at no cost to the athletes and their families.
Children and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image.
The Special Olympics movement transforms communities by inspiring people throughout the world to open their minds, accept and include people with intellectual disabilities and celebrate the similarities common to all people.
Special Olympics athletes compete in categories based on gender, age and ability level.
All Special Olympics activities reflect the values, standards, traditions, ceremonies and events embodied in the modern Olympic movement. These activities have been broadened and enriched to celebrate the moral and spiritual qualities of persons with intellectual disabilities to enhance their dignity and self-esteem.
Special Olympics has a 95% brand recognition within the U.S., and 83 cents of every dollar Special Olympics Southern California raises goes directly to programs.
Number of Participants
13,000 Athletes
15,000 Coaches and Volunteers
Nearly 3 million athletes in 180 countries worldwide
12 Sports
Spring/Summer Sports: Aquatics, Athletics (Track & Field), Basketball, Bocce, Golf and Gymnastics.
Fall/Winter Sports: Bowling, Floor Hockey, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball
Contact
Special Olympics Southern California Chapter Office
6730 East Carson Street
Long Beach, CA 90808
Phone: 562.354.2600
Fax: 562.354.2619
Email: info@sosc.org
Web Info
Web Site: www.sosc.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/specialolympics.socal
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sosocal
Mission Partners
KTLA/Tribune Company
Law Enforcement Torch Run
Summit Entertainment
Toyota
The Vons Foundation
Wal-Mart