100% of funds raised by the Law Enforcement Torch Run go to provide programming and services to the athletes of Special Olympics Kansas!

What Is Special Olympics?

A international year-round program of sports training, education and athletic competition for more than one million children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
 

Special Olympics www.soi.org

Began in 1968 when Eunice Kennedy Shriver organized the First International Special Olympics Games at Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois, USA. Since 1968, millions of children and adults with intellectual disabilities have participated in Special Olympics.

Special Olympics Kansas (SOKS) www.ksso.org

 

Began in 1970, growing to include more than 100 local programs and teams across the state. Today, SOKS touches the lives of 5,580 athletes who train and compete year-round in 22 sports, including Unified Sports®. Through our organization, the athletes improve physical fitness, acquire new skills, develop lifelong friendships and encourage widespread community understanding and acceptance.


The Benefits of Participation

Include improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence, a more positive self-image, friendships, and increased family support. Special Olympics athletes carry these benefits with them into their daily lives at home, in the classroom, on the job, and in the community.