Sports are universal, connecting individuals regardless of their race, background, nationality, or intellectual ability. The Special Olympics embodies this universality, demonstrating that human greatness is defined by much more than the limitations of the body. It gives families and communities a chance to come together; provides athletes with the opportunity to feel pride and courage for their accomplishments; and creates an environment where people can change their attitudes about people with intellectual disabilities.

Greenville County Rec hosts the Special Olympics for these reasons and many others, offering training and competition in many different sports. Two full-time Greenville County Rec staffers direct these programs with help from hundreds of community volunteers, making it possible to offer the program without any fees attached.