Special Olympics Germany x Kerry Group –
Together Strong!

Highlights from last year

In the presence of Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and 60 Special Olympics athletes, representatives of the German and international federations sign the official organizer’s contract for the Special Olympics World Games 2023 in Berlin at Bellevue Palace. Thanks to our portfolio of partners and sponsors, we are working on the worldwide recognition for our athletes that they deserve.

At the Special Olympics Berchtesgaden 2020, the National Winter Games for people with intellectual disabilities, around 900 athletes and Unified Partners took part under the motto “Together strong” in 8 sports and the non-competitive offer.

 

Also in Berchtesgaden and thanks to the resources of our sponsors, a very successful part of the National Winter Games was the health program Healthy Athletes®. During the Five Days, about 993 examinations were carried out in the disciplines “Health Promotion”, “FUNFitness” and “Special Smiles”.

Due to the Corona virus, Special Olympics Germany is focusing on digital offerings and creating numerous participatory activities, such as a fundraising run, recommended actions and online fitness courses. With the support of our partners, we could offer regular online classes for our athletes with intellectual disability. It was especially needed because our target group is especially vulnerable to the virus and needs regular physical activity and health advise. Soon, we hope to get photos like the following again:

2021 highlights

Although being limited with the sports programmes due to the ongoing pandemic, Special Olympics managed to stage two very successfull federal games in Berlin and Saxony-Anhalt.

Berlin in numbers:

  • 500 athletes
  • 100 coaches
  • 200 volunteers
  • 12 sports
  • 200 Healthy Athletes screenings

Saxony Anhalt stats:

  • 530 athletes
  • 7 sports
  • 3 Healthy Athletes programs

In addition to that, federal programs offered different kind of sports in the summer, such as the  Unified Football Cup in Hoffenheim (Baden-Wuerttemberg) or trial days where athletes could try new sports. The athletes were really excited to do sports again.

You are an important part in making the success story of the Special Olympics movement happening. Together, we are stronger and can create more opportunities for the future.

 

Without you, the mission of Special Olympics  to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities would not be possible. You are supporting our athletes and giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community. And they appreciate your support!