Our Impact

Special Olympics was founded upon one simple notion: sport has an incredible capacity to transform lives, change attitudes and make communities stronger. By bringing people together, Special Olympics teaches us to recognize our similarities rather than focusing on our differences.

Every Dollar Matters

For every $1 invested in Special Olympics Canada’s community sport programs, $8.76 in social benefit is created.

This value reflects:

Improved Physical and Mental Health

Athletes experience a 15% lower risk of diabetes and a 49% lower risk of depression.
Increased Employment Opportunities

Athletes have a 44% employment rate, compared to only 28% for Canadians with intellectual disabilities who do not participate in Special Olympics.
Longer Lifespans

Athletes engaging in regular aerobic activity gain an average of 2.5 years in life expectancy.

A Larger Impact

$100-150M Annual Benefit to Society

Reduced healthcare costs and increased income contribute to local economies and healthier communities.
More than $100M Contributed to Local Economies in Incremental Income

Athletes' increased employment and participation create a positive ripple effect, boosting local economies and supporting sustainable growth.

Discover the Transformative Impact of Special Olympics Canada

What is Social Return on Investment (SROI)?

SROI is a measure of the social, environmental, and economic value created by an organization’s activities. For Special Olympics Canada, it demonstrates the measurable benefits of our community sport programs for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and the broader community.

By working with Bain & Company, we calculated the value of our programs using financial and social data. This analysis highlights the tangible outcomes your support makes possible.