Welcome to our first interview here on Our Special Families Village!

This week I spoke with Jessica Marsalek from Special Olympics.

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Did you know?

• Special Olympics is the largest sports organization in the world.
• It is the largest movement in the world dedicated to promoting respect, acceptance, inclusion and human dignity for people with intellectual disabilities.

In this interview Jessica tells us:

• What Special Olympics is really all about.
• The benefits of participating – and you might be surprised at what they are!
• Advice for parents and caregivers so everyone has fun and is safe.

 

Through year-round sports training and

athletic competition, Special Olympics

builds self-esteem, fosters courage and

teaches valuable lessons about striving,

winning, losing and trying again.

A recent Yale University study found

that athletes participating in Special

Olympics benefit from:

• Improved physical fitness and sports skills

• Enhanced self-confidence and social competency

• Greater readiness for employment

• Better preparation for independent living

• Increased ability to make personal decisions

• Improved friendships and family relationships

Here are some links to get more information:

Special Olympics, North America

Special Olympics Southern California

Special Olympics, Family Support Network

City of Santa Maria, Recreation & Parks, Special Olympics

For more information on our local Northern Santa Barbara County Special Olympics program:

Jessica Marsalek, Sports Coordinator

Special Olympics Southern California Northern Santa Barbara County

(805) 925-0951 ext. 135

jmarsalek@sosc.org

Enjoy,

Sandra

 

P.S Click here to find more Interviews.