Special Olympics Ontario makes Whitby's Abilities Centre its permanent Durham home

Abilities Centre in Whitby and Special Olympics Ontario have announced a strategic partnership that will give Special Olympics athletes in Durham Region consistent access to high-quality training and competition space for years to come, the Abilities Centre announced Oct. 13.

The multi-year agreement establishes the Abilities Centre as a long-term home for Special Olympics programming in Durham Region, supporting more than 450 local athletes. The investment funds key upgrades to Abilities Centre facilities, including improvements to the Jim Flaherty Fieldhouse.

The partnership will support youth fundamentals, a Unified Program run jointly with Durham school boards, and rhythmic gymnastics, alongside provincial competitions including basketball tournaments and a women's 3x3 basketball event. Abilities Centre will also offer discounted memberships to Durham Region Special Olympics athletes and their families, and recognize the collaboration with dedicated signage in the facility's main lobby.