Special Olympics Kansas

FUNfitness
2024-04-27 10:00 - 14:30 (America/Chicago) | Shawnee Heights High School, 4201 SE Shawnee Heights Rd, Tecumseh, KS, 66542, United States
FUNfitness at North Central Regional Track

Volunteer at this event.

2024 Healthy Athletes
2024-06-01 09:00 - 15:00 | Maize High School, 11600 W 45th St N, Maize, 67601, United States
2024 Healthy Athletes at the Special Olympics Kansas Summer Games

Volunteer at this event.

Healthcare Worker and Community Appreciation Night
2024-09-24 17:00 - 21:00 | Boulevard Brewing, Muehlebach Suite, 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Join us for an evening of celebration, appreciation, and networking designed exclusively for our dedicated healthcare workers. Enjoy a night filled with entertainment, engaging activities, and heartfelt appreciation as we honor your commitment to health and wellness.
Itinerary for the Evening:
5:00 – 6:00 PM: Meet and Greet Social Hour Kick off the evening with a lively meet and greet session accompanied by a live band. Explore various raffle opportunities throughout the venue. Enjoy games like cornhole on the terrace for some relaxed fun.
5:30 PM: Tapas and Refreshments Delight in a selection of tapas and appetizer plates served throughout the event. Complimentary Boulevard beer from kegs and house red and white wines from bottles will be available.
6:00 PM: Opening Remarks Our event will formally begin with opening remarks, followed by an inspiring speech from one of our Health Messenger athletes.
6:30 – 7:15 PM: Healthcare Bingo Participate in Healthcare Bingo with a chance to win exciting prizes!
7:15 – 8:00 PM: Insights and Updates Hear from Svea Knight, our Health Programs Coordinator, and our esteemed clinical directors.
8:00 – 9:00 PM: Networking and Music Continue the night with more live music, networking opportunities, and games on the terrace. Raffle winners announced at 8:30 PM.

RSVP here

Special Smiles at 2024 Fall Outdoor Classic
2024-10-05 09:00 - 13:00 | Two Rivers Youth Club, 1700 N Ridge Rd, Wichita, 67212, United States
The Special Smiles discipline of Healthy Athletes helps athletes optimize their oral health. For many individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) dental care is not often a priority and can take a back seat to more pressing dental issues.
The goal of Special Smiles is to:

Increase access to dental care for Special Olympics athletes, as well as people with ID;
increase awareness of the state of athletes’ oral health for the athletes themselves, as well as their parents or caregivers;
provide hygiene education to the athletes to help endure that they are doing an adequate job of brushing and flossing; and
provide nutrition education so they will understand how their diet affects their total health.

At a Special Smiles non-intrusive screening, a dental care professional and assistants:

assess decay, unstable fillings and sealants, injury, fluorosis, and gingival signs;
provide athletes with a written report card;
provide oral health education (brushing and flossing techniques);
provide personal preventative products such as toothpaste and toothbrushes: and
provide athletes (or their care-givers) who require follow-up dental services a listo of dentists/clinics in their area that will treat patients with special needs, should they have difficulty finding a dentist.

The secondary objective of Special Smiles is to increase the number of dental professionals who will serve people with ID in their practices and clinics.

Volunteer here.
Learn more about Healthy Athletes.

2024 Young Athletes Fest
2024-10-26 10:00 - 13:00 | Gardner Edgerton High School, 425 Waverly Rd, Gardner, KS, 66030, United States
Join us on October 26th, for the 2024 Young Athletes Fest at Gardner Edgerton High School in Gardner, KS! This event is designed to celebrate athleticism, inclusion, and the potential of the next generation of athletes, welcoming children ages 2-11 for a fun-filled day of fitness and sports activities.
The event is divided into two sessions:

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: For ages 2-7, featuring engaging activity stations to help develop foundational skills such as walking, running, balance, and jumping.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: For ages 8-11, focusing on fundamental sport-specific skills to introduce and prepare participants for future Special Olympics sports and Unified sports opportunities.

In addition to the sports activities, we are excited to offer a Healthy Young Athletes pediatric screening for all participants. This free health screening, conducted by trained Clinical Directors, will provide families with valuable health reviews and resources to support their young athletes.
Whether you’re a parent, a coach, or simply a supporter of inclusive sports, the 2024 Young Athletes Fest offers a fantastic opportunity to be part of a movement that encourages fitness, skill-building, and friendship for children of all abilities.
To register your young athlete, visit our registration link. Volunteers can sign up through GivePulse.
For more information, contact Lauren Van Volkenburgh at vanvolkenburghl@soks.org. Come be a part of this amazing event and help inspire the next generation of athletes!

TR-Iffic Day and Treats and Trails
2024-11-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Plaster Center, 1701 S. Homer St, Pittsburg, 66762, United States
Get ready for a Super Hero-themed TR-iffic Day at Pittsburg State University! Hosted by PSU’s Therapeutic Recreation (TR) program, this free, fun-filled event is open to Southeast Kansas youth and adults of all ages and abilities. No physical is required to participate, and the event is designed to promote inclusion, socialization, and activity for individuals with varying ability levels.
Join us at the Plaster Center on the PSU campus on November 7th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a morning of engaging activities. TR students will lead games and interactive experiences like parachute games, bowling, photo booths, bocce, corn hole, and more—ensuring something fun for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
The purpose of TR-iffic Day is to bring the community together and provide opportunities for social connection and physical activity, all while showcasing the importance of therapeutic recreation. Whether you’re an athlete, a fan, or someone looking for a fantastic way to spend the morning, we invite you to join us for an event that celebrates inclusivity and fun.
Dress up as your favorite superhero, come ready to make new friends, and get active in this inclusive, uplifting environment!
Sign Up Here: TR-iffic Day Sign-Up
We look forward to seeing you there for a TR-iffic time!

Healthy Hearing at Fall Indoor Classic
2024-11-08 09:00 - 13:00 | Okun Fieldhouse, 20200 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS, 66218, United States
Healthy Hearing is the audiology component of the Healthy Athletes program. The Healthy Hearing screenings were introduced to Special Olympics athletes at the 1999 World Summer Games.
The purpose of this program is:

to screen the hearing of athletes;
notiify athletes and their guardians/care givers if follow-up care is needed;
provide custom swim earplugs if needed; and
study the prevalence of hearing loss in athletes and individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID).

Athletes are directed through screening stations which:

conduct an examination of the ear canals for cerumen (earwax); and
conduct an otoacoustic (OAE) hearing screening of both ears.

If athletes pass the OAE station, they exit the screening area. If they do not pass then an examination using tympanometry (middle ear) and pure tone screening is conducted. Upon completion of the screening, the athlete receives a copy of the screening report form, which includes follow-up recommendations.

Volunteer here.
Learn more about Healthy Athletes

Health Promotion at Fall Indoor Classic
2024-11-08 09:00 - 13:00 | Okun Fieldhouse, 20200 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS, 66218, United States
Health Promotion focuses on healthy living and healthy lifestyle choices.
Its goals include:

encouraging and enhancing healthy behaviors;
reducing risky behaviors; improving self-efficacy and self-advocacy; and
increasing the investment of health care leaders for people with intellectual disabilities.

Screenings focus on the following core health areas:

Bone Density Screening and Bone Health;
Blood Pressure Monitoring;
Body Mass Index (BMI);
Education on Nutrition, Hydration, Sun Safety and Tobacco Avoidance & Cessation; and
Physical Activity

Volunteer here.
Learn more about Healthy Athletes

Strong Minds at Unified Bocce
2025-02-22 09:00 - 15:00 | Lawrence High School, 1901 Louisiana Street, Lawrence, KS, 66044, United States
Join Us for Strong Minds at Unified Bocce in Lawrence!
Special Olympics Kansas is thrilled to host our first-ever Strong Minds Screening on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Lawrence High School (1901 Louisiana Street, Lawrence, KS 66044) during the Unified Bocce event.
This groundbreaking screening will focus on comprehensive well-being, addressing mental, physical, and emotional health. Designed to empower our athletes and participants, Strong Minds is an opportunity to learn practical strategies for managing stress, maintaining resilience, and fostering positive mental health.
We’re proud to partner with Unified to make this event a success, but we need your help! We’re seeking mental health professionals—or mental health professional students—who are passionate about supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities to run this vital screening.
Mark your calendar for this milestone event and join us in supporting a healthier, more inclusive community. If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more, stay tuned for the GivePulse link coming soon!
Together, we can build stronger minds and brighter futures.

321 Fit!
2025-03-22 09:00 - 12:00 | Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, 66210, United States
321 Fit – Celebrating Abilities, Fostering Inclusion
Date: March 22, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Johnson County Community College Gymnasium
Address: 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210
Join us for 321 Fit, an inspiring and inclusive event dedicated to promoting physical activity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Hosted by the Kansas City Alliance for Physical Activity in IDD, this event is designed to celebrate abilities, foster inclusion, and encourage healthy, active lifestyles.
Event Highlights
Inspiring Speakers – Hear from community leaders and self-advocates about the power of physical activity in transforming lives.
Inclusive Fitness Stations – Enjoy fun, engaging activities set up along the indoor track, designed for all ability levels.
Breakout Sessions – Gain insights from self-advocates as they share their personal experiences and the importance of staying active.
Volunteer & Participation Details
Volunteer Report Time: 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Opportunities to stay longer and assist with the Down Syndrome Innovations Walk-Through Parade)
Parking: Available in the lower lot near the softball/baseball fields and indoor track. Event staff will provide directions upon arrival.
🔗 Volunteer Sign-Up: Register Here
🔗 Participant Registration: Coming Soon!

Healthy Hearing at Hays State Basketball
2025-03-22 09:00 - 14:00 | Gross Memorial Coliseum, 600 Park St, Hays, 67601, United States
Healthy Hearing Screening at Hays State Basketball – March 22, 2025
Special Olympics Kansas is excited to bring Healthy Hearing to the Hays State Basketball Tournament for the second year in a row! Join us on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Gross Memorial Coliseum (600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601) for a day dedicated to improving athletes’ health and wellness.
The Healthy Hearing screening ensures that athletes can optimize their performance and overall quality of life by identifying and addressing any hearing concerns. Participants will receive valuable resources, and as a bonus, those who complete the screening will earn coupons to use at the SOKS General Store!
Screening Details:

Location: Classrooms off the main track, en route to the basketball courts.
Navigation: Clear signage will be posted to guide participants to the screening area.

We understand that conducting hearing screenings in noisy environments can be challenging, so we’ve designated a quieter area to ensure a smooth and effective process. Help us spread the word to encourage athletes and their families to prioritize their hearing health!
If you’re attending the Hays State Basketball Tournament, take advantage of this free and essential service. To volunteer for the event, visit GivePulse here.
Let’s work together to promote health, wellness, and athletic excellence.

Kansas Community Physical Activity Leader Workshop
2025-04-11 08:00 - 17:00 | Maize High School, 11600 W 45th St N, Maize, 67601, United States
Kansas Community Physical Activity Leader WorkshopDate: Friday, June 6, 2025Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PMLocation: Maize High School – Main Gymnasium📍 11600 W 45th St N, Maize, KS 67601Hosted by: Special Olympics Kansas Health & Fitness ProgramWorkshop Lead: Erin McDanielRegistration: Click here to sign up

Lead the Way: Activating Physical Activity Leaders in the Community
Are you ready to inspire movement and create healthy change in your community? Join us for the Kansas Community Physical Activity Leader Workshop, a FREE 2-hour, hands-on training designed to equip you with the skills to lead inclusive physical activity programs for people of all abilities.
Whether you’re a coach, Unified partner, athlete leader, parent, or a local program staff member—this workshop is for YOU. If you’re passionate about fitness, health, and leadership, we want to help you take the next step in making an impact.
✅ Learn how to lead simple, fun, and inclusive fitness sessions✅ Build leadership confidence to engage your team or local group✅ Connect with other change-makers in the Special Olympics Kansas community
Bonus: The first 30 registrants who attend the full workshop will receive a $25 stipend and special goodies from Special Olympics International!
Don’t miss this opportunity to become a Physical Activity Leader and help get your community moving—one workout at a time.

Register today: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScM03HTocLypH9AHe_tnKWmnHNhasXRCpnCPea8ccjsMPhvqQ/viewform?usp=sharing

Community Physical Activity Leader Course and Workshop Information-June 6

Field Day with Benedictine College
2025-04-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Murphy Recreation Center, 1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison, 66002, United States
Benedictine Field DayDate: Saturday, April 12, 2025Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMLocation: Murphy Recreation Center, Benedictine College, 1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison, KSContact: Erin McDaniel – mcdaniele@soks.org🔗 Register now: Field Day Registration
Join us for a fun-filled morning of physical activity at Benedictine Field Day! This inclusive event is open to families and individuals of all ability levels, ages 3 and up. Participants will enjoy a variety of engaging activities designed to promote movement, fitness, and fun in a supportive environment. Whether you’re looking to get active, meet new friends, or just enjoy a great morning of sports and recreation, this event is for you!
Don’t miss out—register today and come ready to move!

Young Athletes Fest
2025-04-12 13:30 - 14:30 | Tonganoxie High School, 404 US-24, Tonganoxie, 66086, 66086, United States
Young Athletes Fest – A Day of Inclusion & Fun!
Join us for the Young Athletes Fest on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Tonganoxie High School! This exciting event is designed to introduce children to the world of sports in a fun, inclusive, and engaging way.
Date: April 12, 2025Location: Tonganoxie High School (404 US-24, Tonganoxie, KS 66086)Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
The Young Athletes Fest is open to all children ages 2-12 and will be divided into two sessions:Ages 2-7: Interactive activity stations focusing on building foundational motor skills and confidence.Ages 8-12: Fundamental sport-specific skills to help prepare for future opportunities in Special Olympics sports and Unified Sports.
Athlete Registration: Sign up hereVolunteer Sign-Up: Join us here
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate inclusion, fitness, and the next generation of athletes. We can’t wait to see you there!

2025 TR-Iffic Day
2025-04-17 10:00 - 12:00 | PSU Plaster Center, 1701 S Homer St, Pittsburg, 66762, United States
TR-Iffic Day: An Out of This World Experience!
Join us for a TR-Iffic Day at Pittsburg State University, hosted by the Therapeutic Recreation Department in partnership with Special Olympics Kansas! This fun-filled event is designed for individuals of all ages with various disabilities to enjoy an exciting day of activities and movement!
Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMLocation: PSU Plaster Center, 1701 S Homer St, Pittsburg, KS 66762Theme: Outer Space – Get ready for an intergalactic adventure!Bonus Activity: “Treats & Trails” Outdoor Walking Event – promoting health and movement!
Come explore the galaxy with engaging activities, interactive fun, and an out-of-this-world experience! Registration is required – sign up here: Register Now
For questions, reach out to zharvey@gus.pittstate.edu. We can’t wait to blast off into an unforgettable day with you!

FUNFitness at North Central Regional Track and Field
2025-04-26 09:00 - 14:00 | Shawnee Heights High School, 4201 SE Shawnee Heights Rd, Tecumseh, KS, 66542, United States
FUNFitness at North Central Regional Track & Field
Special Olympics Kansas is excited to bring FUNFitness back to the North Central Regional Track & Field competition for the second year in a row! Join us on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM at Shawnee Heights High School in Tecumseh, KS, where athletes will have the opportunity to participate in this free health screening designed to improve flexibility, strength, balance, and overall physical wellness.
What is FUNFitness?FUNfitness is a physiotherapy (physical therapy) screening that examines the flexibility, strength, balance , and aerobic fitness of Special Olympics athletes and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Dysfunction in any of these areas can result in pain, discomfort, and sub-optimal activity performance in sports and everyday life. During these screenings, physiotherapists, students, and other related health professionals, identify areas of concern in the above areas to offer education and expert guidance on suggested follow-up care including exercise recommendations, sport-specific training tips, and when appropriate, referral recommendations.
Where to Find Us:The screening station will be outside under the tents to the left of the entrance to the track area. Stop by before or after your events to get checked out and learn ways to improve your fitness and prevent injuries!
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PMLocation: Shawnee Heights High School (4201 SE Shawnee Heights Rd, Tecumseh, KS)Cost: FREE for all participating athletes!
We are thrilled to continue offering this essential health screening to our athletes. Don’t miss this chance to get checked out, learn valuable fitness tips, and take steps toward a healthier, stronger you!
For more information, contact Svea Knight at knights@soks.org

Young Athletes Fest
2025-04-26 09:30 - 10:30
Young Athletes FestDate: Saturday, April 26, 2025Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AMLocation: Hummer Sports Park, 2751 SW East Circle Dr S #1, Topeka, KS 66606Contact: Lauren Van VolkenburghRegister: Click HereVolunteer Sign-Up: Click Here
Join us as we celebrate the spirit of athleticism and inclusion at Young Athletes Fest! This exciting event is designed for children ages 2-12 and features interactive activities that promote foundational motor skills and sport-specific fundamentals.

Ages 2-7: Engaging activity stations to build foundational motor skills.
Ages 8-12: Fundamental sports stations inspired by track & field, helping prepare young athletes for future opportunities in Special Olympics and Unified Sports.
Plus, all participants can take part in a fun run race on the track!

This is a fantastic opportunity for young athletes of all abilities to stay active, build confidence, and have fun in an inclusive and supportive environment. Come join the fun and get moving!

Healthy Athletes at Summer Games
2025-06-07 09:00 - 15:00 | Maize High School, 11600 W 45th St N, Maize, 67601, United States
Healthy Athletes at Summer Games – June 7, 2025
Join us for an exciting day of wellness and fun at the Special Olympics Kansas Summer Games on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Maize High School (11600 W 45th St N, Maize, KS 67101). This year’s event marks a milestone as we bring all SOKS Healthy Athletes disciplines to the Summer Games, including the debut of our very first Med Fest screening!
Healthy Athletes provides comprehensive health screenings in a variety of disciplines, ensuring our athletes have the tools they need to succeed on and off the field. Screenings will take place indoors, utilizing the two auxiliary gyms at Maize High School. Healthy Hearing will be located in a classroom adjacent to the main gym for a quieter and more focused environment.
Why Attend Healthy Athletes?

Complete Multiple Screenings: Athletes who complete multiple screenings will earn exciting prizes.
Enter to Win: Complete all screenings to have your name entered into a special raffle!
Explore Vendor Booths: Engage with vendors offering health and fitness resources tailored for athletes and families.
Comprehensive Care: From vision and hearing to fitness and general health, Healthy Athletes offers services that empower athletes to perform at their best.

Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being while enjoying the camaraderie and excitement of the Summer Games.
For More Information or to Volunteer:
Visit GivePulse here to learn more and sign up.
Let’s celebrate health, inclusion, and excellence at the Summer Games!

Young Athletes Fest
2025-06-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Maize High School, 11600 W 45th St N, Maize, 67601, United States
Young Athletes Fest – A Celebration of Inclusion and Play!📅 Date: Saturday, June 8, 2025⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM📍 Location: Maize High School11600 W 45th St N, Maize, KS 67101🔗 Register here
Join us as we celebrate the spirit of athleticism and the incredible potential of our youngest stars at the Young Athletes Fest! This joyful event is designed for ALL children ages 2–12, focusing on fun, fitness, and inclusion.
Participants will explore a variety of interactive sports and activity stations that build foundational motor skills and prepare them for future involvement in Special Olympics and Unified Sports. The highlight of the morning is a fun run on the track at 10:30 AM, where every child will receive a medal!
Whether you’re a family member, educator, or community supporter, come be part of this uplifting morning of smiles, movement, and community.
For more information, contact Lauren Van Volkenburgh at vanvolkenburghl@soks.org.

TR-Iffic Day & Treats and Trails
2025-11-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Robert W. Plaster Center, 1701 S Homer St, Pittsburg, KS, 66762, United States
TR-Iffic Day & Treats and Trails
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMLocation: Robert W. Plaster Center1701 S Homer St, Pittsburg, KS 66762Event Contact: Olivia Ryan (ryano@soks.org)Registration: Will be available through Pitt State – link coming soon!
Get ready for another exciting day of movement, education, and fun at TR-Iffic Day and Treats and Trails, hosted in partnership with Pittsburg State University and Dr. Covert Miller’s Therapeutic Recreation students!
TR-Iffic Day returns with hands-on activities, games, and health-focused education for Special Olympics athletes.
Treats and Trails is an outdoor walking event beginning at the Plaster Center and looping down toward the stadium and back—with interactive stations along the way! Each station highlights key areas of health and wellness, aligned with Special Olympics Kansas health initiatives:

Competition Readiness
Hydration
Proper Nutrition
Physical Activity
Hygiene

Prizes, healthy snacks and drinks, hygiene products, and interactive games will keep participants engaged while promoting lifelong healthy habits and trail safety awareness.
This event is a great opportunity to connect with athletes, promote inclusion through health education, and get everyone moving in a fun, supportive environment.
More details and registration info coming soon—stay tuned!

Fit Feet at West Regional Basketball
2026-01-30 08:00 - 17:00
Healthy Athletes® Fit Feet – West Regional Basketball
Healthy Athletes® Fit Feet will be offered alongside the West Regional Basketball competition, providing Special Olympics Kansas athletes with free foot and ankle screenings. Led by trained medical professionals, Fit Feet screenings help identify potential issues with foot and ankle health, footwear, gait, and overall mobility.
Athletes will receive education on proper footwear and foot care, and referrals may be provided if follow-up care is recommended. This program plays a critical role in keeping athletes healthy, active, and ready to compete at their best.
Volunteers are welcome to assist with check-in, athlete flow, and support throughout the screening process. Tables, chairs, and a designated space will be provided at the Panther Athletic Center.
Join us in supporting athlete health and wellness at this important regional event!

Special Smiles at SC Regional Basketball
2026-02-21 09:00 - 13:00 | 2100 W 55th St. S., Wichita, KS 67217, 2100 W 55th St. S., Wichita, KS, 67217, United States
Healthy Athletes® – Special SmilesSpecial Smiles is a Healthy Athletes® discipline offered at South Central Regional Basketball in Wichita, providing Special Olympics athletes with free dental screenings and oral health education. Athletes can receive oral health screenings, brushing and flossing instruction, fluoride varnish application, and access to mouthguard fittings. By increasing awareness and access to dental care, Special Smiles helps reduce oral health disparities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and supports healthier, more confident athletes—on and off the field.
For more information on the event or to sign up to volunteer, use the following link: https://soks.givepulse.com/event/721452-healthy-athletes-special-smiles-south-central-regional-basketball
If you have any questions regarding the event, please email your Healthy Athletes contact, Rhae Burt, at burtr@soks.org

Special Smiles at Youth State Basketball
2026-03-14 08:00 - 14:00 | Emporia State University Student Rec Center, 1800 Morse Rd, Emporia, KS 66801, Emporia, 66801, United States
Healthy Athletes® – Special SmilesSpecial Smiles is a Healthy Athletes® discipline offered at Youth State Basketball in Emporia, providing Special Olympics athletes with free dental screenings and oral health education. Athletes can receive oral health screenings, brushing and flossing instruction, fluoride varnish application, and access to mouthguard fittings. By increasing awareness and access to dental care, Special Smiles helps reduce oral health disparities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and supports healthier, more confident athletes—on and off the field.
For more information on the event or to sign up to volunteer, use the following link: https://soks.givepulse.com/event/815341-healthy-athletes-special-smiles-youth-state-basketball
If you have any questions regarding the event, please email your Healthy Athletes contact, Rhae Burt, at burtr@soks.org

Fit Feet at State Basketball and Cheerleading
2026-03-20 08:00 - 2026-03-21 17:00 | Gross Memorial Coliseum, 600 Park St, Hays, 67601, United States
Join us for the Healthy Athletes Fit Feet screening during the State Basketball and Cheerleading Tournament! This important health program provides Special Olympics athletes with free foot and ankle screenings, education, and resources to help them stay healthy and perform their best.
Held at the Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, athletes will have the opportunity to meet with trained health professionals who will evaluate foot and ankle health, identify potential issues, and provide guidance on proper footwear, hygiene, and injury prevention. Healthy Athletes programs like Fit Feet help ensure athletes can continue participating safely and confidently in the sports they love.
This screening will take place during the mornings of March 20 and March 21 alongside the State Basketball and Cheerleading competitions.
Volunteers are also needed to assist with set-up, including helping with tables, chairs, and supporting the screening area.
Come support athlete wellness and help keep our athletes healthy, strong, and ready to compete!
Volunteer here!

Healthy Hearing at State Basketball and Cheerleading
2026-03-21 08:30 - 14:30 | Gross Memorial Coliseum, 600 Park St, Hays, 67601, United States
Join us for the Healthy Athletes Healthy Hearing screening during the State Basketball Tournament! This free health program provides Special Olympics athletes with professional hearing screenings and education to help ensure they can perform at their best both on and off the court.
Hosted at the Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, athletes will meet with trained health professionals who will conduct hearing screenings, identify potential concerns, and provide guidance on hearing health and follow-up care if needed. Healthy Hearing helps detect hearing issues early so athletes can stay connected, communicate effectively, and fully participate in sports and daily life.
The screening will take place on March 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. alongside the excitement of the State Basketball Tournament.
Volunteers are also needed to assist with event setup and support throughout the day, including helping with tables, chairs, and maintaining the screening space.
Help support athlete health and make a difference by volunteering or stopping by to learn more about the Healthy Athletes program!
Volunteer here!

321 Fit
2026-04-18 09:00 - 12:00 | Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, 66210, United States
321 FitDate: April 18, 2026Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMLocation: Johnson County Community College Gymnasium12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66210
Event Description:321 Fit is an annual health and fitness celebration hosted by Special Olympics Kansas in partnership with Down Syndrome Innovations (DSI) and the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC). Held each year around March 21 to honor World Down Syndrome Day, this event promotes inclusive physical activity, wellness education, and community connection.
Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to take part in adaptive fitness sessions, hands-on health stations, and engaging educational activities designed to inspire healthy habits and support active lifestyles. The event fosters an encouraging environment where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can explore movement, build confidence, and celebrate their strengths.
Registration and volunteer links will be available soon.

Young Athletes Fest
2026-04-25 10:00 - 11:00 | College Boulevard Activity Center, 11031 South Valley Road, Olathe, 66061, United States
Join us for the Young Athletes Fest, a fun and inclusive celebration designed especially for our youngest athletes! Taking place during the Unified Soccer Tournament, this exciting event welcomes all children ages 2–12 to experience the joy of sports, movement, and teamwork.
The event will be held at the College Boulevard Activity Center and will feature a variety of interactive sports and play stations designed to help children build confidence, develop motor skills, and discover a love for physical activity. Participants will rotate through engaging activities focused on foundational soccer skills like kicking and coordination, while also practicing important movement skills such as walking, running, balance, jumping, and more.
The Young Athletes and Junior Athletes programs introduce children to sports in a fun, supportive environment that promotes inclusion and early athletic development. Families are encouraged to stay before and after the event to enjoy the excitement of the Unified Soccer Tournament, which begins at 9:00 a.m., and learn more about future opportunities to get involved with Special Olympics Kansas.
Whether your child is new to sports or already loves to play, the Young Athletes Fest is the perfect place to learn, grow, and celebrate the power of inclusion!
Register here!
Volunteer here!

Fit Feet at KC Metro Regional Track and Field
2026-04-25 10:00 - 15:00 | Shawnee Mission South High School, 5800 W 107th St, Overland Park, KS, 66207, United States
Join us for the Healthy Athletes Fit Feet screening during the Metro Track meet! This valuable health program provides Special Olympics Kansas athletes with free foot and ankle screenings, helping them stay healthy, comfortable, and ready to compete.
The screening will take place on April 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Shawnee Mission South High School.
During Fit Feet, trained health professionals will assess athletes’ foot and ankle health, identify any concerns, and provide guidance on proper footwear, hygiene, and injury prevention. This program plays an important role in keeping athletes active and performing at their best.
Volunteers are needed to help make this event a success! Opportunities include assisting with setup, supporting the screening area, and helping with tables and chairs. Lunch will be provided for volunteers.
Stop by to support athlete health and wellness, or sign up to volunteer and be part of this impactful program!

Special Smiles at South Central Regional Track
2026-05-02 08:00 - 14:00 | Wichita Collegiate School, 9115 E 13th St N, Wichita, KS, Wichita, 67206, United States
Healthy Athletes® – Special SmilesSpecial Smiles is a Healthy Athletes® discipline offered at South Central Regional Track in Wichita, providing Special Olympics athletes with free dental screenings and oral health education. Athletes can receive oral health screenings, brushing and flossing instruction, fluoride varnish application, and access to mouthguard fittings. By increasing awareness and access to dental care, Special Smiles helps reduce oral health disparities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and supports healthier, more confident athletes—on and off the field.
For more information on the event or to sign up to volunteer, use the following link: https://soks.givepulse.com/event/723825-healthy-athletes-special-smiles-south-central-regional-track
If you have any questions regarding the event, please email your Healthy Athletes contact, Rhae Burt, at burtr@soks.org

Young Athletes Fest
2026-05-09 10:00 - 11:00 | West Middle School, 2700 Harvard Road, Lawrence, KS, 66049, United States
Join us for the Young Athletes Fest, a fun and inclusive event designed especially for our youngest athletes! Held alongside the Unified Track & Field competition, this exciting celebration welcomes all children ages 2–12 to experience the joy of movement, sports, and teamwork.
The event will take place at Lawrence Free State High School and will feature a variety of engaging sports and play stations designed to help children build confidence, develop motor skills, and discover a love for physical activity. Activities will be inspired by track and field events, focusing on foundational skills like walking, running, balance, jumping, and coordination.
Participants will rotate through interactive stations and will also have the opportunity to take part in a fun run on the track, where every child will cross the finish line and receive a medal to celebrate their achievement!
Families are encouraged to come early or stay after to enjoy the excitement of the Unified Track & Field competition, which begins at 9:00 a.m., and learn more about Unified sports and other future Special Olympics Kansas opportunities.
Important Links

Register to participate: https://forms.gle/TSuvtcdEgWvDQVbA7

Volunteer sign-up: https://www.givepulse.com/shift/5542537

Whether your child is new to sports or already loves to run and play, the Young Athletes Fest is a wonderful opportunity to build skills, make friends, and celebrate inclusion through sports!
