"Special Olympics focuses on the abilities of the athletes, not the disabilities."
~Rhonda Schwarzkopf
Rhonda Schwarzkopf
1. What is your involvement with Special Olympics? What special memories do you have?
"I am the Director of Sports and Competition. I have been with Special Olympics Iowa for over 14 years.
In 2010 I served as the Head of Delegation for Team Iowa. We were part of the Special Olympics USA National Games that were held in Lincoln, NE. The athletes were extremely honored to be part of the advanced competition. Throughout the National Games, the athletes strived to do their best to represent the state of Iowa with integrity and sportsmanship. The entire week-long event was special to me."
2. How was the development of Special Olympics a turning point for the intellectually disabled?
"Special Olympics is founded on the belief that people with intellectual disabilities can, with proper instruction and encouragement, learn, enjoy and benefit from participation in individual and team sports. Special Olympics focuses on the abilities of the athletes, not the disabilities. Therefore, the athletes are now part of the community and are accepted by their peers."
3. How has Special Olympics impacted the lives of the intellectually disabled, their families, and society?
"Special Olympics believes that through sports training and competition, people with intellectual disabilities benefit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. Families are strengthened, and the community at large, both through participation and observation, is united in understanding people with intellectual disabilities in an environment of equality, respect and acceptance."