Hi there,

Like me, I’m sure you’ve been watching, in horror, the devastating situation unfolding in Ukraine. As millions flee Ukraine, Special Olympics is working tirelessly with our programs in Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova to provide immediate assistance.

Already one of the most marginalized populations in the world, people with intellectual disabilities (ID) now face the most challenging and unimaginable circumstances. Not only fleeing unspeakable violence, but integrating into new host communities.  

From immediate relief through the form of hygiene supplies, clothes, food, and other basic necessities to the integration into existing sports clubs and early childhood development equipment for our Young Athlete programming, Special Olympics is doing its part to support children and adults with ID during this difficult time.

One story that warmed my heart was Makar, a Ukrainian boy with autism who has been integrated into Special Olympics Slovakia gymnastics and swimming. Markar’s mom has already shared with us a sense of hope for the future of Makar in his new community. 

It’s because of Makar and so many others that the Special Olympics Unified with Refugees platform was created in 2016, after Europe alone received more than a million refugees and migrants the preceding year. Since that time, Special Olympics and its valued partners have brought the power of sports to refugees with and without ID in Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia.

Special Olympics has an important responsibility to support and protect the lives of people with ID and their families wherever they are – including in the most desperate of settings. As a supporter of our movement, we know you are right here with us. 

With these athletes in our hearts, 

Jason Teitler
Senior Vice President, Global Communications and Brand Lead