In 1974, Special Olympics Edmonton (SOE) was formed in response to the Edmonton community asking to create sport opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. SOE started with 20 athletes who participated in programs comprised of floor hockey, swimming, track & field, and downhill skiing. Today, over 550 athletes participate year-round in 37 sport programs.
Each year, SOE organizes fund raisers, tournaments, and other events to raise funds and increase awareness in the Edmonton area. SOE receives only 1.5% of its budget from institutional grants therefore other costs must be dealt with through additional fund raising initiatives. Athletes and volunteers participate in events such as the Bowl for Special Olympics Edmonton, the Law Enforcement Torch Run and other events such as Cops & Lobsters, the Wal-Mart Sit, and a host of others. The organization; its athletes and volunteers, are very grateful for the support SOE has received over the years.