SPECIAL OLYMPICS GB ANNOUNCES ENHANCED PARTNERSHIP WITH LIONS CLUBS OF THE BRITISH ISLES

Special Olympics GB and Lions Clubs of the British Isles are delighted to announce a renewed and enhanced collaboration to develop and advance a shared goal of improving the quality of lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

In recognition of the long-standing global partnership between the Special Olympics movement and the Lions Clubs International Foundation since 2001, this partnership aims to build on an existing mutually beneficial relationship as both organisations continue to work towards building a more inclusive, unified society.

Special Olympics GB is a non-profit charity and the largest provider of year-round, sports coaching and athletic competition in summer and winter sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and is so much more than just an opportunity to take part in sport – it transforms lives. Through sport we provide opportunities to increase confidence, realise potential, develop physical fitness and mental well-being, demonstrate courage and experience new friendships.

With networks across England, Scotland and Wales, both Special Olympics GB and Lions Clubs of the British Isles can provide opportunities for both their volunteers and our clubs to work together. Not only does this raise the profile of both organisations, but also provides our athletes with meaningful opportunities to share their amazing stories, and to have their voices heard. All of which benefit everyone involved.

Paul Richardson, Chair of Special Olympics GB said: "Lions Club International have a long history of supporting good causes through their fundraising activities and incredible network of volunteers around the world. Here in the UK we are grateful to Lions Clubs of the British Isles for their continued support and we are looking forward to exploring more creative ways of working together."

Past International Director, Phil Nathan MBE from Lions Club International said: "Special Olympics GB and Lions Clubs International have the capacity to create countless moments of excellence for people with intellectual disabilities. As international partners, it is advantageous that both organisations work to help the other in achieving their core organisational goals and objectives. By utilising each other’s core capabilities, together we can usher in an enhanced, higher quality program to bring positive change to the lives of persons with intellectual disabilities, their families, and their communities."

Michelle Carney, CEO Special Olympics GB said: "Our relationship with Lions is a great example of what can be achieved when organisations choose to work with Special Olympics GB. It is a genuine win-win situation. Our athletes are truly inspirational and the most amazing advocates of not only themselves but also what Special Olympics GB can do for people with intellectual disabilities. At Special Olympics GB we focus on ability, not disability, and the contribution and voice of our athletes is heard at all levels of our organisation. Their continued contribution to our growth and development as a movement inspires and energises me every day! Our role is to create environments and platforms where our athletes can share their voices and be heard. Inclusion and Diversity is very much high on peoples’ agenda at the moment and it is crucial that this is followed by action and change, so it is great to be working with Lions to push this agenda."

As part of a shared global partnership, some of our athlete leaders have recently been inducted into the Centennial 100 Champions Lions Club. An international group of members, the Centennial 100 Champions Lions Club is dedicated to creating and implementing service projects in support of Special Olympics, as well as empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to achieve their best – both on and off the field of play.

The induction of our Special Olympics GB athletes was carried out by way of a virtual webinar, led by 2nd Vice President of Lions Clubs International Brian Sheehan.

"The leadership of the Special Olympics GB athletes is to be commended," said Vice President Sheehan.

"This induction was one of the most fulfilling events I have participated in during this entire COVID confinement period, and how fortunate we are as a global service organization to count on the determination, and innovation, of these new members who have already brought such great energy to our work."

Under the global partnership banner "Mission: Inclusion", Special Olympics and the Lions Clubs International Foundation have brought inclusive development and inclusive service opportunities to countless individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families since 2001. With active partnership programming in over 100 nations, Special Olympics and Lions Clubs International Foundation continue to implement key services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, including but not limited to vision care screenings, inclusive sports programming, early childhood development activities, family health seminars, local fundraising and service campaigns, and much more.

In addition, since 2013, Special Olympics and Lions Clubs International Foundation have implemented the "Invite an Athlete" initiative, encouraging Lions Clubs from throughout the world to conduct outreach to individuals with intellectual disabilities, to harness the unique talents and gifts of this often marginalized population.

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