Special Olympics New Hanover County provides year-round training in 27 sports, local and regional invitational competitions, social events, recreation activities and more to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics provides opportunities for athletes to compete in inclusive and accessible activities while keeping programs safe for all.
More than 750 athletes participate in Special Olympics New Hanover County. The program relies on private and corporate support as well as the efforts of more than 400 volunteers to offer these programs at no cost to the athletes or their families. The annual Polar Plunge fundraiser helps fund all of these programs each year.
Do you have an athlete that would like to take part in Special Olympics programs?
Complete the athlete form
Interested in being a coach or volunteer?
Fill out the online interest form
The Athlete Participation Packet(PDF, 2MB) is required to participate in Special Olympics Programs. A guardian fills out pages 1-4.
Once completed, email Sarah Johnson, or drop off at Skyline Center at 929 N. Front St., Wilmington.
Please note: This Participation Packet must be completed every year.
Join thousands of people who will make a splash for Special Olympics by participating in our Polar Plunges taking place all over North Carolina. A Polar Plunge is a unique fundraising opportunity for individuals, organizations and businesses to support Special Olympics NC by jumping or running into a cold body of water in the middle of winter. Find out more, here. View photos from the 2025 Plunge here.
2026 Plunge Information
Date: February 21, 2026
Video-1.mp4
Brooke DeAmaral Special Olympics Coordinator 910.341.7253 Email
Sarah Johnson Special Olympics Specialist 910.341.7253 Email
To view photos, please click here!