Special Olympics

In alignment with its national “servant leader” initiative, the NAIA has partnered with Special Olympics North America. The partnership provides our student-athletes with the opportunity to demonstrate the five core values of the Champions of Character® program by serving the needs of others first. NAIA student-athletes may participate in any existing Special Olympics events, create their own events, or provide support to Special Olympics through different initiatives.

Special Olympics athletes, individuals with intellectual disabilities, will be invited to participate in Teaming Up For Character™ events at select conference and national championships. In addition, NAIA student-athletes will be encouraged to partner will local Special Olympics programs to establish on-campus engagement. These inclusive opportunities will provide a unique chance for Special Olympics athletes to be a part of the NAIA experience.