The "R" word is hurtful! Join Special Olympics in this world-wide movement! 

The R-word is EXCLUSIVE

“What’s wrong with "retard"? I can only tell you what it means to me and people like me when we hear it. It means that the rest of you are excluding us from your group. We are something that is not like you and something that none of you would ever want to be. We are something outside the "in" group. We are someone that is not your kind. I want you to know that it hurts to be left out here, alone.”

– Joseph Franklin Stephens, Special Olympics Virginia athlete and Global Messenger

Special Olympics provides every person with intellectual disabilities a place of welcome, acceptance and the chance to be their best. Special Olympics Arizona is made up of passionate, committed individuals from every walk of life, who recognize the value and unique gifts of people with intellectual disabilities. And who, together, share the common belief in dignity, equality and opportunity for ALL people.

Our goal at Special Olympics Arizona is to empower the over 180,000 Arizonans with intellectual disabilities to be healthy, productive, and respected members of society through our year-round sports training, competitions, and support programs.

Special Olympics Athlete Oath: "Let me win.  But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

* Spectators of competitions, fundraisers, and all events grant Special Olympics Arizona permission to use their likeness, voice, and words in television, radio, or in any form to promote activities of Special Olympics Arizona.