Children and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. They grow mentally, socially and spiritually and, through their activities, exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm, enjoy the rewards of friendship and ultimately discover not only new abilities and talents but "their voices" as well.

The Special Olympics movement aims to achieve quality growth by creating innovative opportunities to bring the Special Olympics experience to more of the world's 170 million people with intellectual disabilities. At the same time, Special Olympics will work to create positive public attitudes toward a population that is often rejected or forgotten. Specifically, Special Olympics increase the number of athletes participating worldwide to 2 million by the end of 2005, while steadfastly maintaining the quality of the program.

We will promote global athlete leadership and dedicate the movement to empowerment and dignity, not charity. We will change negative attitudes and misperceptions about people with intellectual disabilities, replacing stigma and rejection with an emphasis on potential, ability and acceptance.

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