Special Olympics started as a backyard summer camp, in 1968, and has since been transformed into a global movement to give people with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to participate in sports. 

Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of Special Olympics, saw that many children with intellectual disabilities didn’t have a place to play. She thought this was unfair, so she decided to start a summer camp in her backyard. This small camp grew into the worldwide event that it is today. It shows all people with intellectual disabilities that it is about what they can do and not what they can’t. The goal is to help them discover their strengths, success, and skills through sports. In doing this, the idea of inclusion and acceptance of everyone is boosted.

On Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022, Eaton High School hosted the 2022 Special Olympics. Seven different schools attended, including both middle and high schools. The athletes participated in multiple events including the 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 400 meter dash, long jump, and a softball and tennis ball throw. Volunteers, paras, students, and parents attended to cheer on and support the athletes. 

Mrs. Algino, one of the special education teachers at EHS, said, “My favorite part of the Special Olympics are the faces of the athletes. There is hardly ever not a smile on their faces; they are proud of their accomplishments. It isn’t about the fastest time, or who gets what place but that they are having fun and enjoying themselves.” 

Volunteers even had to chase some of the athletes down who forgot their ribbons because they are just happy to be there and to have fun competing with each other. Volunteer Addison Hager (2025) said, “I saw Special Olympics affecting the kids by giving them a way to feel included and to show off their skills.”

What started as one woman’s inspiration has become an experience that inspires many kids with intellectual disabilities. This event has made a huge impact and created change in so many lives and communities.