1. Disabled Sports USA
Disabled Sports USA is a national nonprofit organization that was established in 1967 to serve soldiers who came home from Vietnam disabled. Now, it has grown into a sports rehabilitation program available to any disabled people around the country. Participants include amputees, people with vision impairments, spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, dwarfism, cerebral palsy, orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions. Disabled Sports USA links those with disabilities to numerous activities including water sports, winter skiing, winter and summer competitions, special sports and fitness events.
2. Special Olympics
Special Olympics is a nonprofit organization that empowers people with intellectual disabilities around the world. It promotes them to become respected, productive and physically fit members of society. The organization offers year-round training and competition. That training develops their motor skills and physical fitness, gives them good self-esteem and a better self-image. As their confidence grows, so do they--socially, mentally and spiritually.
3. Grow on the Inside, too
Playing sports has a profound impact on someone's confidence and dignity. It's a successful rehabilitation tool for people with disabilities. When disabled or handicapped, people feel hopeless, left out, depressed and may even think their lives are over. They can't share certain experiences with their loved ones anymore and can feel cut off from everyone else in their lives. Handicapped sports offer them the chance to be successful, proud and build self confidence. Instead of dwelling on their handicap, they have something to look forward to and work toward. And, they have something to do with family and friends.
4. Challenge and Adversity
Competitive sports challenge those with a handicap. They practice to improve their skills and become stronger athletes. The excitement of victory is a feeling that does wonders for someone. On the same token, the agony of defeat also teaches them an important life skill. Adversity on the court or on the field teaches those with a handicap how to cope with adversity in life. They learn how to bounce back when faced with challenges.
5. Look Local
Disabled Sports USA and Special Olympics have handicapped sports programs all over the country. But there are also independent leagues aimed at offering people with disabilities a competitive outlet--most commonly found is usually basketball. There is deaf basketball, wheelchair basketball and dwarf basketball programs all over the country. Little League Challenger Division is baseball for children with handicaps. It started as an after-school program and is now a national program. All handicapped teams welcome new athletes and coaches work with you to help you develop your skills.
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