Our goal is to make health and fitness more accessible.

Despite severe need and higher health risks, people with intellectual disabilities (ID) are often denied health services and die on average 16 years sooner than the general population.

Special Olympics Health, made possible by the Golisano Foundation and in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is creating a world where people with intellectual disabilities have every opportunity to be healthy.

Inclusive health means people with intellectual disabilities are able to take full advantage of the same health programs and services available to people who do not have disabilities. Our athletes face significant challenges in accessing quality healthcare, fitness and wellness, resulting in pronounced health disparities and reduced life expectancy. Special Olympics’ health programming focuses on improving the physical and social-emotional wellbeing of people with intellectual disabilities by making healthcare and health systems more inclusive.

In Minnesota, we are committed to improving the health of individuals with intellectual disabilities by promoting fitness and providing free health screenings.

Fitness

Inclusive fitness is key to a healthy community. Special Olympics Minnesota offers a few different fitness programs for athletes, Unified partners and anyone interested!

Healthy Athletes

In an effort to combat health disparities and keep athletes performing at their best, Special Olympics Minnesota offers free health screenings and education at Healthy Athletes events.

Health care provider directory

Are you looking for care in any of our 8 Healthy Athletes disciplines? Our Provider Directory includes contact information for individuals and companies/organizations that can help you. The Directory will be updated as we receive new recommendations.

Do you know anyone who should be added to the list? Contact Jeff Prendergast, Health Programs Manager.

In the news

Special Olympics Minnesota Honors Augsburg With Health Leadership Award
March 21, 2025 – At a special presentation earlier this month, the Augsburg University Physician Assistant Studies Program received the Golisano Health Leadership Award from Special Olympics Minnesota.

Learn about Disability Pride Month with Nell-Coonen-Korte, SOMN athlete and advocate for inclusive health
July 2024 – Disability Pride Month is a way to celebrate all that people offer the world. Special Olympics Minnesota advocates for inclusive and equitable healthcare for people with intellectual disabilities!

Healthy Athletes Interviews at 2024 Summer Games: Healthy Hearing by Kayte Barton
July 2024 – SOMN Health Messenger, Kayte, interviewed athletes, parents, coaches and clinical directors to ask them about the importance of Healthy Hearing for the Special Olympics Minnesota community.