On September 20, Nike’s WHQ came alive with the spirit of sport as 400 youth registrants and their families participated in the Youth Games, presented by Special Olympics Oregon and Nike, through Nike’s Let Me Play initiative. This was the third year of this inspiring event, which was free and open to the public. Sports instruction was limited to youth ages 7 to 18 years of age with intellectual disabilities. Activities included track and field, basketball, swimming, soccer and golf with two special athlete appearances. Two-time Olympics gold medalist Michael Johnson and Channing Frye of the Portland Trail Blazers were the youth’s celebrity instructors.

“Young people are the lifeblood, the future, of Special Olympics,” said Margaret Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. “With Nike’s generous support, our outreach to youth and their families is meeting with great success.”

Youth Games is funded by a Nike grant of cash and products. Gary DeStefano, President of Global Operations for Nike, said employees have enthusiastically embraced Youth Games.

“Hundreds of Nike employees have turned out for every one of these events, because this is such a perfect fit with our mission,” DeStefano said. “Nike believes that, if you have a body, you are an athlete. And Special Olympics proves that every person, regardless of the obstacles they may face, can benefit from involvement in sports.”

Beyond sport competitions, the day also featured clinics in skills development and activities for youth with special needs and their families. Licensed health care professionals conducted free examinations, free health screenings and interactive educational and physical fitness games. The day culminated with a closing ceremony where each athlete received an award and special recognition for their participation.

Youth Games was designed to introduce young people with intellectual disabilities, and their families, to the Special Olympics experience. As a direct result of Youth Games, Special Olympics Oregon says they have experienced an upsurge in youth participation in its programs.