Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Help Us Reach One More Special Olympics Athlete!


special olympics
Finding one’s place in the world can be a difficult task. In many cases, individuals experience challenges when it comes to identifying their strengths and socializing with people who demonstrate similar values. The process of discovering where one “fits in” can be especially formidable for those who suffer from a mental disability. Fortunately, specific groups designed to target individuals who suffer from these types of conditions—such as the Special Olympics—can be crucial when it comes to discovering a sense of self-esteem. Before committing to Special Olympics, potential participants and their parents should have a basic understanding of the organization itself, as well as a comprehension of how to enroll in Special Olympics and participation options.


What is Special Olympics?As with other similar organizations, having a solid understanding of the Special Olympics organization is crucial for individuals who are considering joining the group. According to Learning to Give, Special Olympics is an international organization designed to help people with mental handicaps become fit, productive, and respected in their community, through participation in physical activity and competition. Currently, the Special Olympics program offers 26 different types of activities to its 1.4 million participants living around the world. While this organization supports competitions on all levels, the culmination of the program ends in the Special Olympics World Games, which are typically held every four years—in a manner similar to that of traditional Olympics competitions.


How to Enroll in Special Olympics
So how, exactly, does one start competing in Special Olympics? Is there a specific path that enrollees must follow? In most cases, individuals who are interested in joining Special Olympics must complete a specific set of tasks before they are considered to be “eligible” for the organization. To start, parents of those who wish to enroll in Special Olympics must make sure that their children meet specific criteria—such as being above the age of eight years and having a diagnosis of a specific mental handicap. Undergoing a physical examination and completing a release of liability is also essential for those who wish to participate in Special Olympics. Finally, those who want to join the organization must complete a Special Olympics Athlete Enrollment Form, and send it to the office of Special Olympics in the state of region of residence.

Participation in Special Olympics
As mentioned above, there are 26 different types of activities that Special Olympics participants can pursue. Among these include track and field, bowling, tennis, and many more. While some participants may choose to take part in many of these options, others may prefer to pursue just one or two. No matter how many sports that a Special Olympian chooses to enjoy, they can rest assured that they will likely experience great joy and satisfaction in the activity. Through participation in these events, Special Olympics athletes not only improve their physical health, but also their emotional strength and self-esteem---thus making the organization a beneficial one at any stage of life!

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