Facts & Figures Special Olympics New Jersey is a non-profit organization authorized and accredited by Special Olympics, Incorporated and the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation. Special Olympics New Jersey provides year-round sports training and Olympic-type competition in 24 sports for more than 21,000 persons with intellectual disabilities in the state. More than 23,000 volunteers participate statewide. Special Olympics New Jersey provides sports training to athletes through local school, agency and community programs that compete on the Area (county), Sectional and Chapter (statewide) levels in any, or all, of four sports seasons. All competitions are conducted by certified sports officials in compliance with the National Governing Body sports rules. Training and certification programs prepare volunteers at all levels to train athletes and conduct competitions.
Sports By Seasons FALL: Cycling, Equestrian, Flag Football, Golf, Soccer, Volleyball
WINTER INTER: : Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, Speed Skating
SPRING: Basketball, Bowling, Motor Activity Training Program (MATP)
SUMMER UMMER: : Aquatics, Bocce, Gymnastics, Powerlifting, Softball, Tennis, Track & Field
Special Olympics New Jersey employs a staff of 43 full-time and part-time employees at the Chapter office and Sports Complex in Lawrenceville, and is governed by a 17-member volunteer Board of Directors. Fundraising is the tool that supports the extensive volunteer management system which provides more than 160 competitive events year-round, all free of charge to participating athletes. Over 99% of the funds raised are through corporate sponsorships, individual contributions, special events and campaigns, all managed by staff and board members. In 2009, eighty cents of every dollar spent went to programs directly serving athletes. Participation opportunities offered beyond the traditional Special Olympics programs include Unified Sports速, a program that pairs community volunteers with Special Olympics athletes for practices and some competitions. Unified Sports速 provides additional volunteer opportunities to members of the community while introducing Special Olympics athletes to community-based sports.