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Honouring the Legacy of Dr. Frank Hayden

As we remember and celebrate the life of Dr. Frank Hayden — the Canadian visionary whose groundbreaking research inspired the global Special Olympics movement and continues to transform lives today— you can honour his extraordinary legacy through a donation to Special Olympics Canada.

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News & Stories

News May 17, 2026

Special Olympics Celebrates the Legacy of Founding Figure, Dr. Frank Hayden

The Special Olympics community is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Frank Hayden, a pioneering figure whose contributions to the world of sports and disability advocacy have had a profound impact on generations of athletes and families. Dr. Hayden passed away at the age of 96, leaving a legacy that has transformed countless lives.
Story Feb 09, 2026

More than underwear, how bras can make or break your health

While Special Olympics has spent decades researching the health inequities faced by people with IDD—and partnered with many world-class research institutions to do so—we are only beginning to understand the unique challenges pushed onto our female athletes.
News Jan 23, 2026

What is Healthy Athletes?

Studies show that participation in a Special Olympics program can have serious health benefits, including an increase in average life expectancy of 2.5 years, compared to those who do not participate in Special Olympics. Participating in our sports has also been proven to reduce the risk of diabetes by 15% and depression by 49%.
Story Apr 24, 2026

Care That Meets People Where They Are: How One Special Olympics Volunteer Is Making an Impact, One Smile at a Time

For Genevieve Schallmann, a dental hygienist based in Alberta, the path to volunteering with Special Olympics Canada wasn’t a leap—it was a natural extension of a career built on compassion, curiosity and a deep belief that everyone deserves dignified care.

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Testimonials

“I can be accepted for who I am, and not for my disability. It’s like having a family outside of my family. It has truly changed my life in many different ways. I can honestly say without SO I don’t know where I would be in my life right now.”

Emily Craig, athlete leader from SO PEI

“I found that teaching Special Olympics [made me] more creative as a coach, and to really make skating—I keep coming back to joy—to make the programs joyful for our skaters. No one will learn anything if they’re not having fun."

Julia Chapelski, SO British Columbia Figure Skating Coach

“I think it’s really important to support initiatives that really help people be healthy, have fun, and be competitive. Have a chance to get involved in sports.”

Brenda, donor