In today’s diverse and evolving world, it’s more important than ever to ensure every student feels included, respected, and supported. The Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® (UCS) program is leading the way in transforming school communities by fostering social inclusion through sports, youth leadership, and whole-school engagement. Backed by research and years of impact, UCS is not just a program—it’s a movement that’s changing lives.
To make this vision a reality in more schools across the country, Special Olympics provides Unified Champion Schools Grants, a powerful funding opportunity to help educators and students work together in building inclusive school environments. Here’s everything you need to know about the grant, the UCS program, and how your school can take part in creating meaningful change.
What Is the Unified Champion Schools Program?
At its core, the Unified Champion Schools program is about uniting students of all abilities to become agents of change in their schools and communities. The program is built on three essential pillars that ensure inclusion is woven into the fabric of school culture:
1. Inclusive Sports
Unified Sports® brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team, encouraging friendship, understanding, and teamwork. By training and competing alongside each other, students break down stereotypes and form genuine bonds that transcend differences.
These sports programs can include basketball, soccer, track and field, and more—depending on the resources and interests of the school. The shared experiences on the field often lead to deeper connections in the classroom and beyond.
2. Inclusive Youth Leadership
Students are at the heart of the UCS program. Through leadership opportunities, they are empowered to take initiative, advocate for inclusion, and create a welcoming environment for all. Students with and without intellectual disabilities work side by side to plan events, speak out against exclusion, and lead the charge toward a more compassionate school culture.
Leadership clubs, student councils, and peer mentoring programs are just a few ways schools can engage students in inclusion-focused leadership.
3. Whole School Engagement
Inclusion becomes powerful when it involves everyone. Through school-wide activities and campaigns, UCS ensures that the message of respect and acceptance reaches every corner of the school. From assemblies and awareness days to banner-making events and unified dances, these efforts build a shared sense of community and belonging.
Whole-school engagement turns inclusion from a program into a movement—something everyone is part of.
What Are the Unified Champion Schools Grants?
The Unified Champion Schools Grants are designed to provide schools with the necessary funding and resources to bring these inclusive practices to life. Whether your school is just starting its inclusion journey or looking to expand existing efforts, the grant offers support for:
- Starting or enhancing Unified Sports® teams and events.
- Hosting leadership training and workshops for students.
- Organizing school-wide campaigns such as “Spread the Word to End the Word.”
- Purchasing equipment, uniforms, and supplies to ensure participation for all students.
- Facilitating inclusive field days, assemblies, and classroom-based activities.
The grant helps schools remove financial and logistical barriers, making it easier to implement sustainable programs that promote inclusion throughout the academic year.
Who Can Apply for the Grant?
The grant is open to elementary, middle, and high schools across the United States that are committed to creating a more inclusive learning environment. Each school must:
- Demonstrate a willingness to implement the three core components of UCS.
- Have support from administration, teachers, and other school staff.
- Partner with their local Special Olympics Program, which offers guidance and support throughout the year.
- Commit to tracking their progress and submitting impact reports to ensure continued growth and accountability.
Schools in all stages of the inclusion journey are encouraged to apply—whether they’re just getting started or have already laid the groundwork for inclusive programs.
What Is the Impact of Unified Champion Schools?
The results of the UCS program speak for themselves. According to national studies, participating schools report:
- A reduction in bullying and exclusionary behavior.
- Increased student confidence and sense of belonging.
- Stronger relationships between students with and without intellectual disabilities.
- Greater overall engagement in academics and extracurricular activities.
- More inclusive attitudes that extend beyond the school into the larger community.
Teachers, students, and families consistently share stories of how UCS has positively impacted their school environment. From students who found their voice through leadership roles to friendships that blossomed on the field, the program has created thousands of ripple effects across the nation.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
Inclusion isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. As schools face growing concerns around student mental health, belonging, and social connectedness, UCS offers a practical, impactful solution. By making inclusion a daily practice, schools become safer, kinder, and more supportive places where every student has the chance to thrive.
Ready to Join the Movement?
If you believe in the power of inclusion and want to see your school become a place where everyone is welcomed and celebrated, the Unified Champion Schools Grant is the perfect opportunity. With guidance from Special Olympics and support from a growing network of schools nationwide, your school can become part of a national movement for change.
Start building a culture where inclusion isn’t just a goal—it’s the norm.