Mission: Inclusion Romania

As part of a shared commitment to forging social inclusion worldwide, Special Olympics and the Lions Clubs International Foundation have placed an increased emphasis on the role that youth can play in making the world a more inclusive place for all. Through the transformative power of community service, youth worldwide have come together to not only amplify their message of hope but have put this message into motion!

The athletes of Special Olympics Romania and the Leos of Romania serve as a vibrant example of the way in which youth can offer new models of programming, new models of engagement and create new connections where they are needed most. Under the banner of “Mission: Inclusion”, the Leos of Romania teamed up with the athletes of Special Olympics Romania to practice their skills at home – using technology to ensure that their activities were fully Unified. This initiative is part of a long – standing collaboration between Special Olympics athletes and Leos from around the world through the implementation of Unified sports programming- bring youth with and without intellectual disabilities together on the playing field as a way to connect to the larger community.

A national partnership shared between Special Olympics Romania and the Lions Clubs of Romania has ushered in a new platform of programming and service, including vision care, early childhood development services, refugee support, family health services, and most importantly youth engagement through inclusive sports. Lions Clubs International Foundation and Special Olympics are committed to ensuring that youth of all abilities- Special Olympics athletes and Leos alike- have the opportunity to showcase their abilities, their solidarity, and their unity.

In a world seemingly upside down, the global community is need of new teachers, new messages, and new models. Who is best to teach these lessons? Perhaps we need look no further than the Leos of Romania and their Special Olympics athlete peers to show us the way.