Lucy Meyer Is a Global Champion for Children With Disabilities

For more than 70 years, UNICEF has been putting children first, protecting their rights and providing the assistance and services they need to survive and thrive. 

Less likely to start school, often kept at home by their families and abandoned by their governments, children with disabilities are among the world's most marginalized groups. Lucy Meyer, a five-time Special Olympics gold medalist in swimming and advocate for children with special needs, is fighting to change that.

On a recent trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Meyer toured social inclusion programs where children of all abilities have fun and learn about having friends, working together and being part of a community. "I hope all kids here and everywhere else get to have the same opportunities that I have at home," says Meyer.

As spokesperson for the UNICEF - Special Olympics partnership, Meyer has helped raise millions of dollars to support UNICEF programs for children with disabilities. "She looks at adversity as an opportunity to learn and grow," says David Evangelista, Special Olympics Regional President & Managing Director, Europe Eurasia. "She invites us to celebrate difference."

UNICEF believes that all children have a right to reach their full potential. You can help by donating to Lucy Meyer's UNICEF USA and Special Olympics fundraiser on CrowdRise. 

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UNICEF and partners are working tirelessly in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Syria, Yemen, South Sudan, Bangladesh and around the world to save and protect children. With a presence in 190 countries and territories, UNICEF has helped save more children's lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world. 

Top photo: © UNICEF