About Us

Our Mission 

Enriching the lives of Albertans with an intellectual disability through sport.

History

In 1974, Special Olympics Edmonton was formed in response to the limited opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate in organized sports training and competition. Starting with 20 athletes in 1974 who participated in the sports of floor hockey, swimming, track and field, and downhill skiing, today, over 550 athletes participate year-round in 37 sport programs.

Each year, Special Olympics Edmonton organizes many fund raisers, tournaments, and other special events to raise awareness in the Edmonton area. Because Special Olympics Edmonton receives only 1.5% of its budget from government grants, other costs must be realized by fund raising initiatives. Athletes and volunteers participate in events such as the Servus Credit Union Bowl for Special Olympics Edmonton, Law Enforcement Torch Run activities such as Cops & Lobsters and Wal-Mart Sit, and other fund raising activities. Donations are also made by corporations and individuals.

Our athletes also have the opportunity to participate in local and provincial competitions, and when possible, in national and world competitions.

If you have any questions, or any general comments, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Our Team

Special Olympics Edmonton Staff

• Sean Gillen - Sport Development Manager
• Kathy Arbuah - Special Events & Administration Manager

Management Committee

Special Olympics Edmonton is overseen by an Affiliate Management Committee of Edmonton Residents.
Management Committee volunteers take active roles in the organization, providing expertise in areas such as finance, fundraising, event planning, programs and communications. The Management Committee works closely with Special Olympics Alberta and Special Olympics Edmonton Staff to support in decision making and organizational leadership.

• Rob Spanach (Chair)
• Richard Goatcher (Past Chair)
• Audrey Drolet
• Cyndie Annett
• Elwin Worobec
• John Dover
• Tina Copp
• Jeremy Graham

 Athlete Leadership Committee

Special Olympics Edmonton has a six member committee that provides leadership and direction to affiliate program development, enhanced by direct and ongoing athlete consultation, and provides recommendations to the Special Olympics Edmonton staff and Management board.

• Rodger Gratton (Chair)
• Warren Pattinson
• Jessica McLean
• Tammy Royan
• Gerry Wenckowski
• Derek Seabrook
• Daisy Stacey

Learn more about Special Olympics:
Special Olympics Alberta |Special Olympics Canada |Special Olympics International