by Debora Spadafora

Created on: April 08, 2009

Humanity set the precedent when it initiated the Special Olympics. Since the conception of this organization, people's minds have been opened to understanding the importance of treating all people with dignity and respect.

Special Olympics sports have played an important role in changing people's attitudes about understanding those with an intellectual disability. These are people just like you and me with talents and gifts that should be recognized instead of shunned or ignored.

The Special Olympics is a worldwide venture worthy of recognition and support by all. By supporting and encouraging this venture, we are sending the message that we can build a more inclusive and an all-accepting world for everyone.

I have a nephew who is physically and intellectually handicapped. He goes to school every day like everyone else and participates in sports. I thank god that he is accepted with the dignity and respect he deserves.

The Special Olympics is hosted by over 200 countries with communities volunteering to do their part in promoting goodwill to all.

This started out as a grassroots effort to raise awareness of how hurtful labels are and how devastating it can be to any young person with a disability. We can all make a difference and we can start by educating those in our communities. Encourage them to support the Special Olympics and thereby put an end once and for all to discrimination.

The Special Olympics empowers their athletes to achieve their goals and be recognized as a valued member of their community. It is an inspiration to these athletes and has certainly been an inspiration to me.

There are many ways to support this non-profit venture. You can be a volunteer simply by contacting the nearest Special Olympics organization near you or you can donate to this worthy venture.

By enhancing these programs, the Special Olympics can continue to be a worldwide educational tool to promote an unbiased and more accepting world for all people.

We would all like to achieve dignity and acceptance by our peers and this is no different for someone with an intellectual disability. It certainly does not mean that they are not capable of achieving their goals if given the chance. They deserve a chance at the O like all other athletes. Let's give them that chance. We can open our minds to understanding the Special Olympics and the important role it plays in making this a happy world for all mankind.

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