Special Olympics - Northeast Florida

Summary of Services

• Free sports activities for individuals of all ages with physical or intellectual disabilities
• Programs offered at home or on-site (schools, camps, daycares, churches, and community centers)
• Sports include basketball, swimming, bocce, cheerleading, cycling, and more
• Free health screenings, education, and referrals for participating athletes
• Includes opening and closing ceremonies and an awards ceremony

Offering Opportunities at Home or On-Site

Special Olympics Northeast Florida fosters community unity while empowering individuals of all ages with physical or intellectual disabilities across Northeast Florida, including Duval, Clay, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns Counties, and beyond. This inclusive organization offers free sports opportunities designed to strengthen families and communities together. Programs are flexible and can be held at home or on-site.

Guided by a dedicated team of staff, coaches, and families, Special Olympics Northeast Florida is committed to growth, inclusion, and positive experiences. Athletes can participate in basketball, swimming, bocce, cheerleading, cycling, soccer, tennis, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, bowling, volleyball, cornhole, and flag football. For athletes with profound challenges, non-competitive Motor Activities Training Programs (MATP) provide meaningful ways to stay active and engaged.

Celebrating Achievements and Promoting Inclusion

In addition to training and statewide competitions, the program hosts inspiring opening and closing ceremonies to celebrate each athlete’s achievements. Specialized initiatives such as Unified Champion Schools promote inclusion and empathy by encouraging students, with and without disabilities, to embrace diversity.

Free health screenings, referrals, and education are available through The Healthy Athletes Program. The Healthy Community Program provides care through ongoing access to vision and hearing devices, training opportunities, and resources for both individuals and their caregivers.

Building on Sports Fundamentals and Encouraging Leadership

For younger participants, the Youth and Adaptive Sports Program teaches foundational skills like walking, running, balancing, catching, and throwing. This program is divided into two levels. Level 1 focuses on developing basic motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Level 2 builds on these fundamentals through sports skill activities aligned with official Special Olympics sports play, including walking, running, balancing, jumping, trapping, catching, throwing, striking, and kicking.

Finally, the Athlete Leadership Program empowers athletes. Participants enhance their coaching and public speaking abilities, contribute to fundraising efforts, and serve as ambassadors for inclusion, helping to create stronger, more unified sports environments for all.