Special Olympics Illinois' mission is...to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with mental retardation, 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 Olympic athletes and the community.

Part of an international program, Special Olympics Illinois provides sports opportunities for children and adults 8 years and older with mental retardation or closely related developmental disabilities. Special Olympics Illinois provides year-round training and competition in 19 Olympic-type sports: alpine skiing, aquatics, athletics (track & field), basketball, bocce, bowling, cross-country skiing, equestrian, figure skating, floor hockey, golf, gymnastics, powerlifting, snowshoeing, soccer, softball, speed skating, tennis, and volleyball. Special Olympics Illinois conducts more than 175 separate competitions each year at the area, district, regional, and state levels with athletes competing in divisions based on age, gender, and ability.

Special Olympics Illinois provides much more than sports opportunities. It teaches pride and hope. It builds confidence and self-esteem. It increases overall awareness of the accomplishments Special Olympics athletes can achieve if only given the opportunity.

Special Olympics Illinois relies solely on the contributions of corporations, individuals, and civic organizations. Special Olympics Illinois is not funded by government agencies or the Kennedy Foundation and is not a United Way agency.

Administrative and fund-raising costs for 2005 were 27.46%.
Charity Number: 905-0000