50 Game Changers

ESPN and Special Olympics have teamed up on a year-long storytelling initiative telling the stories of game changers and game changing moments toward inclusion. Check back each week for a new story of inclusion.
Spencer Roberson in his equestrian gear with a medal around his neck and his arm around a women; both are giving a thumbs up.

Spencer Roberson

Spencer Roberson is an accomplished Special Olympics athlete who made his victorious international debut at the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.
Law Enforcement Torch Run

Law Enforcement Torch Run

For nearly 40 years, members of law enforcement around the world have been the biggest supporters of Special Olympics as members of the Law Enforcement Torch Run.
Pizzability

Pizzability

Located in Denver, Colorado lies a restaurant where customers pay for delicious slices of pizza but life lessons about awareness and inclusion come free of charge.
Elliot De Niro

Elliot De Niro

At a young age, Elliot De Niro developed strength and confidence through tennis. Today, he shares his love of sport and exercise with his best friend, Max, as they learn and grow together.
Milton Rosen the Rocks rock

Milton Rosen the Rocks rock

Milton Rosen, a Special Olympics athlete, formed a close bond with Dwayne Johnson during their childhood.
Inclusion in UAE

Inclusion in UAE

People with intellectual disabilities are changing hearts and minds in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Rosa standing in front of a brick pillar with the word You are Beautiful written above her. She is looking up and smiling for the photo.

Rosas Law

In 2010, President Barack Obama signed “Rosa’s Law” which changed “mental retardation” to “intellectual disability” in US federal law. Inspired by nine year-old Rosa Marcellino, the law was a key component in the groundswell of advocacy efforts promoting inclusive, people first-language for people with intellectual disabilities.
Malachie sitting on a football with young children surrounding him.

Malachie

Malachie was found in a dark room, chained to a pole in a Tanzanian refugee camp. His life was changed when he was brought out of isolation and introduced to Special Olympics Unified Sports.