Special Olympics Winter Games, Nagano
Since the first Special Olympics World Games were held in Chicago Ill. in July 1968, the event has grown to become one of the world’s leading athletic events. This year, the Special Olympics World Winter Games were held in Nagano, Japan. These games were sponsored by Amway Japan, featuring 2,600 athletes from 84 countries. In addition, Amway Japan provided many IBO and employee volunteers for the event.
“Through One by One, there are a number of opportunities for volunteers to help handicapped children,” says Atsuko Iwaki, Manager – Social Contributions, Amway Japan. “These opportunities really move our employees and distributors; it’s such a special experience.”
The 2005 Special Olympics World Winter Games are of global significance both as the first Special Olympics World Games in Asia and as the first time the “three Olympics” – the Olympic Games, the Paralympics Games and the Special Olympics Games – will have been held in the same city.
Amway Japan has supported the Special Olympics since 1998. This global movement is dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition. Special Olympics offers children and adults with intellectual disabilities year-round training and competition in 26 Olympic-type sports.
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.
Amway Japan’s support has provided funding for athletic training. Special Olympics believes that through sports training and competition, people with intellectual disabilities benefit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually; families are strengthened; and the community at large, both through participation and observation, is united in understanding people with intellectual disabilities in an environment of equality, respect and acceptance.
Special Olympics is committed to empowering people with intellectual disabilities on and off the playing field. By working to remove obstacles, change attitudes and open minds, Special Olympics provides opportunities for its athletes to demonstrate courage, experience joy and share their gifts, skills and friendship with the world.
