Special Olympics Utah

Founded in 1971, Special Olympics Utah creates life-changing opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across our state. Through the power of sports, health, and leadership programs, we build confidence, strengthen bodies, spark joy, and create lasting community connections.

Our mission is simple: provide year-round Olympic-style sports training and competition for children and adults with IDD. Today, more than 6,500 youth and adults with IDD and Unified Partners participate annually in 17 summer and winter sports, discovering new strengths on the playing field and new possibilities in life.

But we do more than sports.

Unified Champion Schools bring students with and without disabilities together through inclusive teams and youth leadership, transforming school cultures into places of belonging and respect.

Healthy Communities delivers free professional health screenings, wellness education, and referrals in seven critical health areas — while training medical professionals to provide inclusive, respectful care. These services directly tackle the serious health disparities faced by people with IDD.

Athlete Leadership empowers individuals with IDD to become confident leaders, public speakers, and self-advocates. Athletes develop skills to serve on boards, lead community initiatives, mentor peers, and represent Special Olympics in public and policy spaces — ensuring people with IDD have a voice in decisions that impact their lives.

Every program is free. Every athlete is welcome. Every donation fuels inclusion, health, and opportunity across Utah. Whether you are looking for a way to play sports, be inspired or have an impact in your community, getting involved with Special Olympics is a great way to have fun and give back. For more information on Special Olympics Utah, please visit our website.

Because everyone deserves a chance to shine.