Special Olympics Virginia believes it is necessary to provide extra support to urban centers like the City of Richmond. Recent studies confirm this need:
• Higher number of children with intellectual disabilities
• Higher number of single parent households requesting services for special needs children
• Lower number of community volunteers to support special needs programs for children and adults
Youth with intellectual disabilities attending Richmond Public Schools have very few, if any, opportunities to participate in physical education classes and structured intramural sporting events. Additionally, Richmond Parks & Recreation has no programs geared toward youth or adults with intellectual disabilities.
Special Olympics Virginia, in cooperation with Richmond Public Schools and Richmond Residential Services, fills this void. Through increased recruitment and awareness, we provide programs in seasonal sports, life skills and social activities for eligible children and adults.

Many thanks to our generous Community Partners who support the Urban Program. Donors like the CarMax Foundation help us in our goal to impact more Special Olympics athletes, coaches, teachers and youth volunteers thanks to our longtime relationship with Richmond Public Schools and Richmond-based group homes.