Melbourne Eastern Ranges Club is a proud member of the Special Olympics network, providing a range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability. As part of Special Olympics Australia, the club aims to help members have fun, be healthy, build self-esteem, demonstrate courage, and make friends.
Special Olympics Australia is a part of a global movement that has been transforming the lives of people with intellectual disabilities for almost 50 years. The global sporting community 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.
In Australia, Special Olympics began in 1976 when many individuals with intellectual disabilities were institutionalised. While this is no longer the norm in Australia, the organisation continues to seek public support to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities are not marginalised or isolated. By providing opportunities to play sports, Special Olympics opens the door to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for some of the most marginalised members of the community.
Melbourne Eastern Ranges Club is a vital part of Special Olympics Australia, aiming to increase the reach of the organisation and spread the joy of sport and community. With only 3,000 athletes participating out of a potential 850,000 people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism, the club relies on the support of individuals like yourself to make a difference.
Unlike the Olympics and Paralympics, which focus on elite athletes, Special Olympics is a year-round multi-sports programme for individuals with intellectual disabilities of all capabilities. Special Olympics Australia offers robust competition pathways, including the World Games hosted on a four-year cycle in both summer and winter sports. Awareness and funding for Special Olympics are still growing, and the organisation aims to have its time to shine.
People with intellectual disabilities may find it challenging to perform what are considered basic tasks, such as reading, handling money, or using public transport. However, this does not mean they cannot learn to do these things. They may just require different learning methods and more time and support to succeed. Special Olympics Australia aims to provide a platform where individuals with intellectual disabilities can focus on their abilities and uncover hidden talents through sport.
Melbourne Eastern Ranges Club invites you to join in and support their mission of creating an inclusive and empowering environment for individuals with intellectual disabilities. By participating, donating, or volunteering, you can help open doors to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for this deserving community.