Special Olympics Israel is part of the Special Olympics International nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through year round sports training and competitions.

Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in the U.S.A., Special Olympics offer children and adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to improve physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and more positive self-image. The athletes grow mentally, socially and spiritually, and through their sports activities exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm, enjoy the rewards of friendship and discover not only new abilities but their "voices" as well!

The goal of Special Olympics is to change attitudes towards people with intellectual disabilities emphasizing potential, ability and acceptance.

Our athletes come from all social and economic sectors of our country: from city and village, kibbutz and moshav, North and South, veteran Israelis and new immigrants, Jew, Muslim, Christian and Druze.

Sports offered by S.O. Israel are: Athletics, Aquatics, Basketball, Bowling, Cycling, Judo, Soccer, Tennis and Table Tennis. We hope to introduce additional summer sports and also Winter Sports in the future. We also have Unified teams of Special athletes alongside Regular athletes.

Our coaching staff is the backbone of our program and support and pushes our athletes to reach their maximum potential. They go above and beyond their "job" and become: coach, teacher friend, confidant, and family to our athletes and families!

The Prime Minister of Israel has signed the China Declaration making Israel one of the countries to endorse new international law for all people with Intellectual disabilities.

Other Special Olympics Initiatives in Israel: Family Support Network, Young Athlete Program, Unified Sports, Get In To It.

Be  A Fan. Be  A Fan of Dignity. Be A Fan of Courage. Be A Fan of Respect.

Click here to watch the "S.O. Israel – Champions – Winners ALL!" Video clip

Your contribution will make dreams become reality!

Bank Transfer:

Bank Hapoalim

Special Olympics Israel

Ayalon Branch – 558

Account Number: 249965

ABA Code: POALILIT

Checks and inquiries to:

Special Olympics Israel / The Wingate Institute / Netania 42902 ISRAEL

Tel: 972-72-2115872

Fax: 972-9-8852523

Email: info@soi.org.il