Although society has made great strides, there still are many myths and misconceptions about intellectual disabilities. As a media professional, you are in a unique position to shape public knowledge. We need your help! The guidelines presented here offer suggestions for appropriate descriptions and preferred terminology when reporting about Special Olympics.
Special Olympics is for people with intellectual disabilities. Some Special Olympics athletes also may have physical handicaps, but the criterion for participation is intellectual disabilities. We prefer “people first” language. Therefore, instead of saying “Special Olympics is for mentally and physically handicapped persons” we say “Special Olympics is for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.”
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Photography release statement: No athlete may compete in any Special Olympics Montana (SOMT) event without having a signed release statement on file. The statement grants permission for SOMT and the media to use the athlete’s name, likeness, voice and words in television, radio, films, newspapers, magazines, and other media for the purpose of promoting and publicizing, educating the public, and raising funds.
TO: SOMT Constituents FROM: SOMT Staff SUBJECT: 2022 Bowling and State Summer Games Programming DATE: November 23, 2021 As a successful 2021 program year draws to a close, Special Olympics Montana (SOMT) would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the athletes, unified partners,......
23 November, 2021Bozeman Special Olympics athlete, Ruth Spinelli, and her coach, Alean Skinner, released their first book in October about the impact the organization has on people who are involved with it. Using responses to a survey completed by more than 200 athletes, coaches, family members, volunteers and staff; the......
16 November, 2021Heather Wendell
Marketing & Design Specialist
Office: 406.315.4208
Email: hwendell@somt.org
