Athletes Visit Indiana Statehouse

Special Olympics Indiana athletes visited the Indiana Statehouse yesterday to meet with legislators and share firsthand how inclusive sports, health and leadership programs are changing lives across the state.

Athletes and staff leaders spent the day connecting with state representatives and senators to discuss the importance of continued support for year-round sports training and competition, health and wellness initiatives and athlete leadership development programs.

Team Indiana athletes shared personal stories about the impact of participating in Special Olympics – from building confidence and friendships to improving physical and mental health. The visit highlighted the organization’s commitment to ensuring that individuals with intellectual disabilities have access to opportunities that foster inclusion, respect and achievement.

“I was really excited to talk with members of the Statehouse and tell them what Special Olympics means to me,” said Special Olympics athlete Charlotte Miller of the Washington Township program in Indianapolis, who is part of the delegation. “Being an athlete has helped me grow stronger and more confident, and I want them to know how important these programs are for all of us.”

Indiana House of Representatives Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) presented a resolution congratulating Special Olympics Indiana on its recent milestone of 20,000 athletes, as well as offering well-wishes for the 111 members of Team Indiana who will represent the Hoosier State in June at the USA Games in Minneapolis.

“We are so proud of our Hoosier athletes and the dedicated volunteers who make Special Olympics Indiana possible,” Huston said. “This organization opens doors for every athlete to compete, grow and be part of a team. We are cheering them on every step of the way and wish the more than 100 athletes representing Indiana at the USA Games this summer the very best of luck.”

Special Olympics Indiana provides year-round sports training and competition, as well as health, education and leadership programs, for more than 20,000 athletes across the state. By visiting the Statehouse, Team Indiana athletes are using their voices to champion a more inclusive Indiana, one where every person is valued and empowered to succeed.