Due to VivaCell-MTS’ support the Armenian delegation consisting of seven athletes attended the Special Olympics European Summer Games 2010 held in Poland YEREVAN, DECEMBER 11, NOYAN TAPAN. On December 3-5, 2010, on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Special Olympics Armenia held sports competitions in athletics, basketball, and football. The event, which took place in Vanadzor, involved 120 athletes of ages 12-15 representing special, mainstream and sports schools. The games were held with the support of the Government of Armenia, namely, the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, Viva-Cell MTS and Lori region regional authority. This has been Viva-Cell’s regular support to the individuals with intellectual disabilities involved in Special Olympics Armenia. Thus, thanks to this generous support, the Armenian delegation consisting of seven members attended the Special Olympics European Summer Games held in Warsaw, Poland, in September 2010. Armenian Special Olympics 19-year-old athlete Suren Balasanyan, who competed in 50 m run and softball throw, won the 1st place and a gold medal at the Games. It is noteworthy that back in 2006, Viva-Cell MTS enabled the participation of the Armenian team at the Special Olympics European Summer Games held in Rome, Italy, where the Armenian special athletes got winning places. Armenian special athletes’ participation at similar local and international events has contributed to the change in awareness of the society on the possibilities and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities, to forming new friendships, and building an accepting and inclusive society.

---