Special Olympics Clubs – Bendigo is a sports club based in Bendigo, Australia. As part of the Special Olympics network, the club aims to provide a range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability. Their mission is to promote fun, health, self-esteem, courage, and friendship among their members.
Special Olympics Australia, of which Special Olympics Clubs – Bendigo is a part, is a global movement that has been transforming the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities for almost 50 years. The organisation was pioneered by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister to US President John F Kennedy, and Rosemary, who had an intellectual disability. Today, Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes in 177 countries.
Special Olympics Clubs – Bendigo was established in 1976 when many individuals with intellectual disabilities were confined to institutions. While this is no longer the norm in Australia, the club seeks public support to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities are not excluded. By providing opportunities for sports participation, the club aims to open the door to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for marginalised members of the community.
The club is dedicated to increasing its reach and spreading the joy of sports and community. With only 3,000 athletes participating in Special Olympics Australia out of the estimated 850,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism, the club relies on the support of individuals to achieve its mission. Donations, volunteering, and participation are all encouraged to make a difference in the lives of those with intellectual disabilities.
Like the Olympics and Paralympics, Special Olympics believes in the power of sport to create a better world. While each organisation has a slightly different focus and level of awareness and funding, Special Olympics differentiates itself by being a year-round multi-sports programme for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The organisation offers robust competition pathways, including the World Games held on a four-year cycle in summer and winter sports.
Intellectual disability is often characterised by difficulties in performing basic tasks such as reading, handling money, or using public transport. However, individuals with intellectual disabilities can still learn and succeed, albeit in different ways and sometimes with additional time and support. Special Olympics Clubs – Bendigo recognises the hidden talents within their members and believes that sports can help uncover and showcase these abilities.
Overall, Special Olympics Clubs – Bendigo is dedicated to providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to engage in sports, improve their health and self-esteem, and build connexions within their community. The club relies on public support to continue their work and make a positive impact on the lives of their members.