Special Olympics is an international organization dedicated to empowering individuals with mental retardation to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition. Special Olympics offers children and adults with mental retardation year-round training and competition in 30 Olympic-type summer and winter sports. Special Olympics mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for individuals with mental retardation by giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
Special Olympics serves more than 1 million persons with mental retardation in more than 160 countries. Children and adults with mental retardation 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.
Special Olympics Northern California
Special Olympics National
ALAMEDA POINT COLLABORATIVE
Through the closure and conversion of the Alameda Naval Air Station, APC received 34 acres of land, including 239 housing units and space for a community garden, a commercial plant nursery, a health center and a community center. This unique public conveyance has given APC the ability to combine programs, including affordable housing, mental and physical health services and employment in an integrated, comprehensive effort. Rather than addressing individual factors associated with homelessness in isolation, APC is building a community that fosters support and interaction. APC provides the necessary environment for residents to regain control of their lives and build stable futures. Nearly 500 individuals live at Alameda Point, including more than 250 children.
Residents are committed to regaining their lives and their places in the community. They include women and families recovering from domestic violence, adults and children with disabilities, persons living with AIDS and formerly homeless veterans and their families. All APC programs work to foster resident leadership, from employing residents in various capacities throughout APC to a resident council to the recently-opened community garden. APC creates opportunities that allow residents to become the primary stakeholders in their community.
Alameda Point Collaborative
