**Community Partner:** Special Olympics Lithuania

**Social Issue:** Intellectual disabilities

**Ambassadors:** 

**Main Life Skills:** Goal seeking, Personal growth, Teamwork, Self-confidence and Communication skills

**About The Program:**

The Kaunas Zalgiris One Team program is joining forces with their social partner, Special Olympics Lithuania, to create a unique One Team program addressing the social issue of disability equality. Designed for up to 16 mixed-gender participants aged 12 to 25 with intellectual disabilities, the program spans 24 sessions across two groups, with each group attending 12 weekly 1.5-hour sessions. Led by two dedicated coaches and supported by two sports industry volunteers and four Special Olympics volunteer supervisors, the program fosters a strong bond between coaches and participants, ensuring consistent attendance and enthusiasm. Participants also engage with the community by attending EuroLeague home games to cheer for Zalgiris, boosting their connection to the team and raising program awareness through the club’s fan base.

The program’s core objectives are to reduce social exclusion and stigma surrounding intellectual disabilities while promoting personal growth, self-confidence, and improved communication skills among participants. The highlight of the program is planning to be the 11th session, where participants take charge as coaches, leading drills for invited fans. This empowering “grand finale” encourages leadership and bravery, often proving an opportunity to build confidence and resilience for future challenges. 

Drawing from past seasons’ success, the program creates a supportive environment where participants thrive, gaining skills and experiences that enhance their personal development and community integration.