Special Olympics Vermont’s community programs are the foundation of its year-round work, connecting athletes with local opportunities to train, compete, build friendships, and become part of a community. Athletes join a program in their area, where they practice alongside coaches, volunteers, and teammates throughout the year before representing their local program as a delegation at statewide competitions. With 26 community programs located across Vermont, these delegations create opportunities for athletes 8 and above to develop skills and confidence, stay active, form meaningful relationships, and experience the pride of representing their community. Just as importantly, they bring families, volunteers, coaches, and community members together around a shared commitment to inclusion helping create communities where people with IDD have meaningful opportunities to participate, contribute, and belong.