Special Olympics is well known for its ability to promote self-awareness and bring joy among its athletes who participate. Even more, Special Olympics provides opportunities for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities to participate in leisure activities which are often taken for granted by the average person. Research has shown that the more students participate in Special Olympics, the more likely they are to participate in leisure activities beyond high school. Parents of adults with disabilities often share the frustration and heartache of watching their adult child disengage from the community as their opportunities to participate in community activities and sporting events decline. By increasing the number of activities and sporting events provided to individuals with developmental disabilities, we are encouraging community participation and a sense of belonging and self-worth.

Since January of 2006, Special Olympics Forsyth (SO Forsyth) has increased its participation in state games by adding certified coaches in the areas of basketball skills and teams, powerlifting, tennis, table tennis, bowling, bocce, softball skills, track and field, and aquatics.  This has allowed us to greatly increase the number of athletes that we send to state and area games as well as increase their participation in after school sports activities.  Even more exciting, we have increased the number of SO Forsyth adult athletes.  This is very important to us as we strive to encourage life long health habits and provide opportunities to gain new friendships among our adult population with developmental disabilities. Without adapted sports and Special Olympics Programs, our young and adult athletes have very limited access to typical sporting events and social activities. We will continue to ensure Special Olympics Forsyth is a recognized sporting program with numerous sporting activities offered throughout the year for all athletes with developmental disabilities.

How can you help?
Volunteer - we have numerous volunteer opportunities that can fit almost anyone's schedule and skills.
Coach - Become a coach or assistant coach.  We are proud of the coaches that represent SO Forsyth.  Our coaches and committee members are highly valued and are considered the "core" of the SO Forsyth Family.
Donate - It is the belief that Special Olympic Athletes must not be charged for his/her participation. This includes uniforms, sporting equipment and supplies, state participation fees and lodging and travel expenses during the state games.  SO Forsyth does not receive any funds from the state to help pay for these expenses.  Delivery of programs and expenses relies on the generosity of our volunteers and financial supporters.

Mission:

To establish year round sporting and leisure activities for individuals with disabilities who live in ForsythCountyand the surrounding areas.

Beliefs:

1.  ForsythCountystudents with disabilities need more opportunities to participate in leisure and sporting activities.
2.  The earlier a child gets involved, the more likely s/he will continue his/her involvement later as an adult.
3.  Special Olympics and sporting/leisure activities are vital to the success of a student’s transition to adulthood as it can positively enhance one’s independence, social skills, health, and self-worth.
4.  By increasing community awareness regarding students with disabilities and the need for leisure activities, the more they will embrace and expect year round activities within their community.
5.  Getting involved in leisure and sporting activities will yield positive and rewarding experiences for the individual, his/her family and the community.