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Family Corner
 
Families who have children with intellectual disabilities are just like any other families; however, having a child with special needs often thrusts them into situations that may make their everyday lives more challenging. Special Olympics Massachusetts provides families with opportunities to be part of a year-round sports training and competition organization which provides the entire family with opportunities for sports, social interaction and fun..


SOMA athlete, Jay Nothnagle with father, Geoff.

When your family joins the Special Olympics Massachusetts team, you join our global family -- a support network that reaches far beyond the playing field. You will find hope, celebration, pride, acceptance and support. Most of all, you will find friendships that will last a lifetime.

Special Olympics is an Opportunity:

  • For families to share in the accomplishments of other family members.
  • To share the Special Olympics joy with other families.
  • To allow the extended family to be part of a year-round sports training and competition program.

1991 Special Olympics Families Survey

  • Families reporting improvement of their child's self image - 97%
  • Families reporting a "new dimension" of happiness for the family through Special Olympics - 91%.
  • Families reporting that Special Olympics is a good support group for the family - 100%.
  • Families sharing in the accomplishments of their child family member in Special Olympics - 99%.

The Message of Hope:

Hope is defined as; the feeling that something desired is possible. Hope is clearly evident in many family members. Through participation in Special Olympics, individuals with intellectual disabilities experience increased motor skills, courage, joy, friendships and other meaningful feelings. Because of this, families become more focused on the positive aspects of raising a child. When family members speak about their involvement with Special Olympics, one can only wonder what feelings they may be experiencing. The family member is the most credible individual in which to attest to the impact of Special Olympics. Family members have proved to be a powerful tool in raising awareness for Special Olympics.

Click here for information on the SOMA family history.

For more information on how to become a SOMA family member, please contact Martha Dove at volunteer@specialolympicsma.org - be sure to include your athlete's name, your address and your phone number. You may also call 978-774-1501 ext. 219.