Northampton County Special Olympics

Special Olympics is a global organization that exists to highlight the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. While we are a sports-focused and competitive-focused organization, our benefits go well beyond the boundaries of the playing field. Research has shown that athletes who participate in Special Olympics are better equipped to ho... ld jobs, live on their own and complete day to day tasks than their non-playing counterparts. WHAT IS NORTHAMPTON COUNTY SPECIAL OLYMPICS? Northampton County Special Olympics began in 1976 in partnership with Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 . We are 1 of 55 accredited programs under the Special Olympics Pennsylvania umbrella. With over 1,000 athletes, Northampton County Special Olympics is one of the largest programs in the state. WHAT IS THE MISSION OF NORTHAMPTON COUNTY SPECIAL OLYMPICS? Our mission at Northampton County Special Olympics is to change lives through sports. We are very dedicated to providing athletes with special programs that allow them to participate in lifetime sports and allow them to engage in social activities. HOW IS NORTHAMPTON COUNTY SPECIAL OLYMPICS FUNDED? Northampton County Special Olympics has full financial responsibilities for all practices, competitions, after school programs, state games, sectionals, ribbons, equipment and transportation to state, sectional events and much more. Funding is obtained through donations from generous individuals and community businesses. In addition, we host several major fundraisers throughout the year, including the annual Lehigh Valley Polar Plunge and NCSO Golf Tournament. WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS? Northampton County Special Olympics is open to School-aged students who have an identified intellectual disability or cognitive delay. You do not need to be a Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 student or classroom to participate. All district students and classrooms are welcome. The Young Athletes Program offers younger athletes (ages 2 - 7) the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to ...Read More