Special Olympics Wellington

Special Olympics changes the lives of people of all ages with an intellectual disability through the medium of sport. Athletes with intellectual disabilities participate in year round training and competition which encourages fitness, independence and healthy lifestyles. Sports offered in Wellington are basketball, soccer, athletics, football, ten pin bowling, swimming and bocce (a sport similar to Petanque).

We needs funds to pay for the following:

- swimming pool lane hire, basketball and football court hire

- transport costs to get to tournaments

- accommodation to stay in when we are away at tournaments

- registration fees for events and Games

We love to give our athletes new experiences that other people may take for granted. A. (aged 29) has hardly ever been away from her family so staying overnight in a motel in Palmerston North recently for a tenpin bowling event was a very big deal - and one that she thoroughly enjoyed. D (aged 20) enjoyed his first plane ride when we took the team to Dunedin for National Summer Games.

Our athletes want much the same as everyone else - a job, friendships, recreational activities, respect for their individuality and an opportunity to contribute to society. Special Olympics Wellington creates a safe environment in which our athletes can grow and develop at their own pace through their involvement in sport, and this helps then achieve their life goals.