Meet Shaun!

Meet Care Design NY member, Shaun. He is an athlete and participated in the Special Olympics New York events for 16 years. His involvement has provided him with year-round activities and a big circle of friends and supporters. Shaun is single and lives in the Long Island region and enjoys social events and networking.

It’s well documented that individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are less active than the general population. The Special Olympics Athlete Oath is, "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me brave in the attempt." This embodies the movement that was started by late Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1962 with a summer camp in her Maryland backyard. In 1968, the Special Olympics were founded to create a new world of inclusion and community, where every single person is accepted and welcomed regardless of ability or disability.

One year later, the program was inaugurated in New York. Special Olympics New York provides inclusive opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. It encourages athletes of all abilities and ages across New York to compete at their optimum level.

Shaun’s face lit up when he described his experience with Special Olympics New York at a Track and Field event in Ithaca, New York. He stated, “I went upstate for track and field and participated in the 100-yard dash and Shot Put.  Hundreds of athletes and coaches attended.”  Shaun qualified and attended the 2016 Summer State Games in Brockport, New York. He is very proud of the medals and ribbons he’s received over the years.

Other Special Olympics New York events that Shaun enjoys including bowling, basketball, and the All-Star Drumline. His mother described how motivated he is to attend practices and competitions so he can visit with friends. She stated, “Special Olympics New York has provided Shaun with a sense of purpose and a positive outlook. It keeps him sharp.”

You can see the sense of pride in Shaun’s face when he talks about his weekly bowling events and describes his friendships. Shaun stated, “Every Saturday I bowl with friends. It’s fun!”

Care Design NY sponsors Special Olympics New York virtual Health and Wellness forums focused on improving access to health care, education, and inclusive activities for people with IDD. Click here for more information on this unique partnership.

Mark Your Calendars and Register for Two Virtual Forums in Quarter 1 2024:

• January 16 @ 6:30 PM via Zoom. Mental Health Resources for individuals with IDD. Click here to register and learn more.
• February 13 @ 6:30 PM via Zoom. Mental Health Promotion and Wellness for Individuals with IDD. Click here to register and learn more.

To learn more about Special Olympics New York, visit their website.