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“The freethinking of one age is the common sense of the next.” — Matthew Arnold, 1875
In 1968, when Special Olympics began, the idea that people with intellectual disabilities could take part in Olympic-type sports training and athletic competition was considered "freethinking." Today, it is common sense.
Some people still believe that the idea of Special Olympics athletes |
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| Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs) | | |
in full and meaningful participation leadership positions in the movement is "freethinking” or tokenism.
But at Special Olympics, the "next age" has arrived. “The freethinking of one age is the common sense of the next.” — Matthew Arnold, 1875
In 1968, when Special Olympics began, the idea that people with intellectual disabilities could take part in Olympic-type sports training and athletic competition was considered "freethinking." Today, it is common sense.
Some people still believe that the idea of Special Olympics athletes in full and meaningful participation leadership positions in the movement is "freethinking” or tokenism. But at Special Olympics, the "next age" has arrived. Special Olympics Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs) allow athletes to explore opportunities for participation in roles previously considered “non-traditional.” Through ALPs, athletes serve on Boards of Directors or local organizing committees. Athletes excel as spokespersons, team captains, coaches and officials.
As an integral component of Special Olympics' dedication to empowerment and dignity, ALPs initiatives provide new opportunities for athletes and benefit the movement as a whole.
For more information on specific ALPs initiatives, visit the links below:
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