Mission Statement of Athlete Leadership
“To empower athletes to develop leadership skills and utilize their voices to assume meaningful leadership roles, influence change in the Special Olympics movement, and educate communities around the world that results in positive life changes.” – Vancouver Athlete Leadership Summit 2011
Overview
The purpose of Athlete Leadership is to empower athletes to develop leadership skills and utilize their voices to assume meaningful leadership roles, influence change in the Special Olympics movement and create inclusive communities. Special Olympics Rhode Island provides training and support for athletes who desire to expand their participation in Special Olympics, both on and off the competition field. Through Athlete Leadership, athletes receive training and have opportunities to hold positions of leadership and influence.
Athlete Leadership allows Special Olympics athletes to help shape the future of the Special Olympics movement and ensure all people with intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to participate in sports training and competition that is fun and fair. If you’d like to participate, please contact Mary-Ellen Powers.
Athlete Leadership University is a structured series of courses for athletes who want to become — or continue growing as — Athlete Leaders. Participants will choose a “Major,” focusing on the leadership role they’re most interested in pursuing.
Available Majors include:
Each Major includes a total of seven courses, divided across two semesters, to help athletes build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen role.
Athletes have the opportunity to serve as Board members for a three-year term. In this role, they are expected to attend Board meetings, which typically last 1–2 hours, and contribute input when appropriate.
To be considered, Special Olympics athletes must submit a letter of interest along with a resume highlighting their Special Olympics involvement and relevant work or life experience to Edwin Pacheco, President & CEO.
