Claudia Peña’s journey with Special Olympics began through her daughter Paola, but quickly became a shared family experience, one in which her family not only found community, but also a deeper understanding of inclusion and resilience.
Claudia has done volunteer work at Special Olympic Games Mexico for over 16 years and joined the Global Family Leadership Council (GFLC) in 2023. Bringing together representatives from each Special Olympics region, the GFLC serves as the collective voice of families within the Special Olympics movement worldwide, helping shape and strengthen global family involvement. The GFLC is committed to developing meaningful strategies, providing thoughtful feedback on family initiatives, and promoting active family participation at every level.
This month we share part three of a global series highlighting all seven members of the GFLC and their connection to health. Below you will meet Claudia.
A proud mother and advocate for inclusivity, Claudia began her journey with Special Olympics when her daughter Paola was six years old. As a child, Paola was diagnosed with an intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) and epilepsy, and a few years later, Paola was diagnosed with autism. During those years, Claudia spent most of her time visiting therapists, doctors and psychologists, and looking for a school that could support Paola’s needs. However, there were only a few options available; others were too expensive and many did not know how to support Paola.
Instead of giving up, Claudia took action. In 2006, Claudia founded a support center in response to the lack of educational centers for children with IDD. The center worked closely with families, children and adolescents with IDD, designed training for teachers and provided in-school support to children through shadowing services. During a meeting with various organizations, Claudia was introduced to Special Olympics and the programs that Special Olympics offers. After hearing the stories of Special Olympics athletes, Claudia knew this was something she wanted to be a part of.
Shortly after that meeting, Claudia and Paola joined Special Olympics Mexico and prepared for swimming, a summer sport offered by the program. By participating in swimming, Claudia saw firsthand the transformation in each athlete as they participated in the sport, seeing them laugh, play and connect with each other. She saw parents sharing advice and supporting each other, creating a space without judgment or stigma.
Since then, Claudia has become a dedicated volunteer: she is a member of the GFLC, has participated in the Special Olympics Latin America (SOLA) Family Program since 2016, and is involved in Special Olympics Health programming.
Health is central to supporting individuals with IDD, yet families often face barriers such as limited access to health care, financial constraints, and a lack of understanding among healthcare providers about how to treat and care for people with IDD.
By means of Special Olympic Games Health programming like Family Health Forums And Special Olympics Healthy Athletes®Claudia has seen real change. During a Family Health Forum, Claudia recalled the respect and dedication doctors showed to the athletes and their families. Claudia said: “The doctors made them feel important and at ease. Families were very happy with the attention they were not used to.”
“It’s also important to note that some families don’t have the financial resources to buy glasses or get their children checked regularly. They usually only seek medical attention in emergencies or when there is a serious problem. And when the parents are no longer around or are getting older, adult athletes often receive even less attention unless a sibling or family member intervenes. That’s why preventive health programs are so important.”
Claudia Peña, mother of Paoloa Peña and Special Olympics parent
Today Paola is 25 and enjoying it bowling with athletes of all levels. Claudia shared that this is one of the most powerful lessons Special Olympics has taught her: participation is inclusivity.
Claudia and Paola’s journey is a powerful reminder of the strength and dedication families bring to the Special Olympics movement. Discover more stories and resources for family engagement.
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