LCIF-Special Olympics
A Steadfast Partnership
The Lions Clubs International Foundation-Special Olympics Mission Inclusion partnership began in 2001 with the Opening Eyes Program. Since then, LCIF has awarded more than US$28 million to Special Olympics for activities that include Opening Eyes, Family Health Forums, Healthy Hearing, Special Smiles and inclusive sports. Lions volunteer at these events, including our Leos. Leos, young people committed to serving others, are integral to this partnership- volunteering as partners in Unified Sports as well as supporting events alongside Lions. Find out more about how Leos are making a difference around the world through the Leo club program.
Real Impact: By the Numbers
Over the years, LCIF and Special Olympics have proudly partnered to create tremendous impact worldwide and achieve multiple successes, including:
455,000+
Special Olympics athletes have received free vision screenings through LCIF's and Special Olympics' Opening Eyes program
194,000+
Special Olympics athletes have received free prescription eyeglasses at Opening Eyes events
22,000+
Lions have volunteered with Special Olympics since 2000
1,100+
Eye care professionals have volunteered their services
2,400+
Active nations of “Mission Inclusion” platform worldwide
50,000+
Families provided with family health education through the LCIF-support Family Health Forum model
500+
Community leaders trained through the LCIF-supported Special Olympics Leadership Academy
20
Creation of Champion Lions Clubs, providing direct support to Special Olympics organizations worldwide
Under the global partnership’s Mission: Inclusion banner, LCIF and Special Olympics have scaled key programs and services. View the infographic to learn more.
Global Signature Partner for the Motor Activities Training Program (MATP)
Through the support of LCIF, Special Olympics will be able to expand the global reach of MATP, ensuring adults and children with intellectual disabilities will be able to access high quality, evidence informed sport and training opportunities, helping them to develop fundamental motor skills and sports skills appropriate for their ability levels. Learn more about our partnership which will also create increased service activities for Lions Clubs and Leo volunteers in support of Special Olympics athletes and their families.
Impact around the world
LCIF-Special Olympics
See how LCIF and Lions, Leos, and Special Olympics athletes from around the world connect to fill communities with inspiration, impact, and kindness.
