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Our Impact

Special Olympics Canada demonstrates the measurable benefits of our community sport programs for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and the broader community

Special Olympics was founded upon one simple notion: sport has an incredible capacity to transform lives, change attitudes and make communities stronger. By bringing people together, Special Olympics teaches us to recognize our similarities rather than focusing on our differences.

Special Olympics Canada exists to serve the needs of people of all ages and all levels of ability, from the individual who will stay active for life, regularly participating in local sport programs, through to the athlete who will advance and compete at National and International competitions. For individuals with an intellectual disability or developmental disability, Special Olympics programs may be the only place where they have an opportunity to engage in their communities, and to develop leadership and life skills. For many, it is a gateway to confidence, empowerment, competence, and acceptance.

These programs are about more than sport—they provide:

Opportunities for regular physical activity
Low to no/cost to participate
Nutrition and health education
A network of peers and mentors
Inclusive space for people with and without disabilities
Skills for leadership and employment
Improved mental and emotional well-being
Sense of belonging

Discover the Transformative Impact of Special Olympics Canada

What is Social Return on Investment (SROI)?

SROI is a measure of the social, environmental, and economic value created by an organization’s activities. For Special Olympics Canada, it demonstrates the measurable benefits of our community sport programs for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and the broader community. By working with Bain & Company, we calculated the value of our programs using financial and social data. This analysis highlights the tangible outcomes your support makes possible.

$8.76 in Social Value for Every $1 Invested, A Remarkable Return on Investment

For every $1 invested in Special Olympics Canada’s community sport programs, $8.76 in social benefit is created. This value reflects:

Improved Physical and Mental Health: Athletes experience a 15% lower risk of diabetes and a 49% lower risk of depression.
Increased Employment Opportunities: Athletes have a 44% employment rate, compared to only 28% for Canadians with intellectual disabilities who do not participate in Special Olympics.
Longer Lifespans: Athletes engaging in regular aerobic activity gain an average of 2.5 years in life expectancy.

The Broader Impact

$100-150M Annual Benefit to Society: Reduced healthcare costs and increased income contribute to local economies and healthier communities.
More than $100M Contributed to Local Economies in Incremental Income: Athletes' increased employment and participation create a positive ripple effect, boosting local economies and supporting sustainable growth.

Learn more about the history of Special Olympics and the legacy of Dr. Frank J Hayden