Special Olympics Wisconsin (SOWI) is a statewide organization which provides individuals with intellectual disabilities year-round sports training and athletic competition. Individuals who are at 8 years old and are identified as having a intellectual disability are eligible for participation.

With seven Regional offices throughout the state, Special Olympics Wisconsin serves nearly 10,000 athletes in approximately 180 communities statewide. SOWI is one of the 52 state programs and one of more than 170 countries providing this opportunity to nearly 3.7 million athletes around the world.

Mission

To provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

Guiding Values

• Mutual Respect
• Positive Attitude
• Accountability
• Teamwork
• Dedication

Special Olympics does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, nationality, origin or political philosophy.

Research

As part of the Strategic Research and Evaluation Plan, Special Olympics Inc. (SOI) has conducted several studies concerning the population that Special Olympics serves and society's attitudes towards them.