Special Olympics Iowa has extended the suspension of all training and activities through the end of June.
Virtual Summer Games
The Summer Games may have been a bit different this year, but it still brought members of the SOIA community together for competition, learning, and fun.

The 2020 Virtual Summer Games saw over 280 athletes, coaches, Unified partners, and fans competing in an at-home competition that included basketball, track and field, and general fitness events.
Following the at-home competition was the Virtual Summer Games Series. The series included 16 sessions that focused on healthy cooking, fitness, Special Olympics programming, and having fun through games and dancing. If you missed out on any of the Virtual Summer Games action, check out the Special Olympics Iowa Facebook page for videos and photos from the event.

Last Chance to Register and Participate in the 2020 Virtual Torch Run
Each year hundreds of members of Law Enforcement carry the Flame of Hope from Des Moines to Ames to kick off the annual summer games. This year’s Law Enforcement Torch Run ® has gone virtual and is open to everyone, law enforcement, athletes, coaches, fans, and Unified partners. Today, June 1, is the last day to register and run, walk, or bike any distance in support of Special Olympics Iowa and the LETR Program.

Not interested in participating but still want to show your support? Donations can be made on the registration page.
First-Ever Unified Sports Varsity Letters
Awarded in Iowa
This spring brought many firsts including the first-ever Unified Sports varsity letters in the state of Iowa. While Special Olympics varsity letters have been awarded at some schools for a few years, the Unified Sports varsity letters awarded this spring were the first of its kind in Iowa.
The first recipients to receive a Unified Sports varsity letter were Joy Rector and Evie Sly of Des Moines Public Schools. Just like other varsity letters, the Unified pair had to meet requirements set forth by the Des Moines Public Schools School District. Those requirements included participating in a number of Unified Sports seasons and actively participating in the Unified club at their school.

Congratulations to All of the 2020 Special Olympics and Unified Sports Varsity Letter Winners!
Steppin' Through Summer Challenge
Our summer fitness challenge is here! Enjoy the outdoors, or indoors, while getting fit by walking, running, biking, or rolling along with us during our Steppin’ Through Summer Challenge. Record the time you spend doing these activities each day for the chance to win prizes including a Fitbit tracking watch! This challenge will last the entirety of the Summer, June 20-September 22, and is open to athletes, fans, coaches, friends, Unified partners, and anyone else interested in joining. Registration will open on June 13.  
A Message to our Graduating Seniors
Congratulations on your recent graduation! We would like to thank each and every one of you for the lasting impact you have made on Special Olympics Iowa. As you embark on your next chapter of life, we hope you will continue to compete, volunteer, and spread the message of inclusion and respect. If you are a high school senior headed off to college, be sure to check out the Special Olympics College Club at your school. Congratulations seniors, you did it!
At-Home Resources
Young Athletes Family Flashcards
Do you have a young athlete that you are introducing sport skills to? The Young Athletes Family Flashcards are a great resource that guides you through building healthy habits and key skills through play.

Health Tracker


Being able to see what you have accomplished always feels good! Use this health tracker to help you track your health and fitness journey throughout the week.

Connect With Special Olympics Iowa
Practicing social distancing may be the most effective way to fight the spread of COVID-19. However, that doesn't mean you can't connect virtually and reach out to teammates, friends and family.

Connect with Special Olympics Iowa for inspiration and wellness tips.
Coaches Corner
We are excited to share that Class A Volunteer certification and re-certification can now be completed online in three steps.
  1. Complete the Class A Volunteer Application and background check
  2. Take the Protective Behavior Training and quiz
  3. submit a color photo, passport quality, to classa@soiowa.org