Special Olympics
Coverage of Special Olympics in the Nexus archive.
- Drowning deaths among young children rise as pediatricians urge stronger water safety measures
Drowning deaths among children ages 1 to 4 increased by 28% from 2019 to 2022, prompting the American Academy of Pediatrics to recommend multiple water safety measures, including four-sided pool fences and dedicated supervision. The rise is linked to pandemic disruptions and racial disparities in access to swim lessons and facilities.
- Camp SOAR returns for its 25th year following the passing of its beloved founder
Camp SOAR is returning for its 25th year at the Levine Jewish Community Center in Charlotte, N.C., hosting over 300 Special Olympics athletes. The event is taking place for the first time without its founder, following their passing.
- Hotels, others look to Special Olympics to help recoup surge losses
The Special Olympics event in the Twin Cities with 3,000 athletes, 1,500 coaches, and over 10,000 volunteers is expected to generate a $70 million economic impact, helping hotels and businesses recover from losses during Operation Metro Surge. A separate case involving a pandemic-era meal program resulted in a $2.5 million judgment due to false claims.
- Studying sports and disability, he laid the groundwork for the Special Olympics
Frank Hayden, who passed away at 96, dedicated his life to studying sports and disability, laying the foundation for the Special Olympics. He believed sports provided opportunities for people with special needs.