the final story part 1 of 20

In 2013, just weeks before the All-Ireland Games in Limerick, Special Olympics Ireland was hit by sweeping internal cuts across its five regional offices. The timing couldn’t have been worse. Six full-time staff were let go almost immediately, and within a matter of weeks, over twenty more either resigned or were pushed out. Those who wished to stay were asked to reapply for their roles—but this time, at reduced pay. It sent a chilling message through the ranks: loyalty and experience no longer guaranteed security.

This period of upheaval foreshadowed an even more controversial decision the following year—outsourcing the National Collection Day to a private company. What had once been a community-driven fundraising effort, where volunteers and local clubs felt ownership and pride, was handed over to outsiders. The heart of the movement was slowly being hollowed out, replaced by cost-cutting measures and corporate strategies. To many on the ground, including Josephine, it felt like the soul of Special Olympics was being sold off, piece by piece.

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