Health Messengers in Action
This page provides examples of Health Messenger activities that may inspire other Special Olympics Programs about what Health Messengers can do to use their leadership skills in health and fitness education and in advocacy to influence change in their communities.
Activation Resources
Health Messenger Activation Guide (PDF)
The Health Messenger Activation Guide is a resource for Special Olympics Program staff and mentors that provides practical guidance for supporting Health Messengers in meaningful health leadership roles. It includes activation ideas, best practices, and strategies for fostering Health Messenger engagement, leadership, and impact.
Health Messenger Communications Playbook (PDF)
The Health Messenger Communications Playbook is a practical resource that provides Health Messengers with ready-to-use content to support their leadership activities. It includes health tips, social media posts, wellness activities, and video concepts that Health Messengers can use to educate, engage, and inspire others. Download social media posts:
Continuing Education
Health System Navigation
Five modules (Sessions 1–5), along with Facilitator Guides, Participant Handbooks, slide decks, and additional U.S.-specific supplemental documents, are designed to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) navigate the healthcare system. Together, they build skills in navigation, strengthen self-advocacy, and promote improved health outcomes. While designed for sequential use, each session can also stand alone. Parallel modules exist for use with carers and can be found on the Family Health Forums webpage.
Resources for use with people with IDD
Five modules (Sessions 1–5), along with Facilitator Guides, Participant Handbooks, slide decks, and additional U.S.-specific supplemental documents, are designed to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) navigate the healthcare system. Together, they build skills in navigation, strengthen self-advocacy, and promote improved health outcomes. While designed for sequential use, each session can also stand alone. Parallel modules exist for use with carers and can be found on the Family Health Forums webpage.
Resources for use with people with IDD
Supplemental Handouts (ZIP)
COVID-19 Self Advocacy Message from Health Messenger, Renee
COVID-19 Self Advocacy Message from Health Messenger, Renee
Watch how Renee, Hawaii Special Olympics Health Messenger, engaged in COVID-19 advocacy as part of her tasks as a Health Messenger.
Related Links
Do you have a success story to share? Email it to healthmessenger@specialolympics.org.