Special Olympics was established in 1962 as a day camp for children with intellectual disabilities in the back yard of Euice Kennedy Shriver's home. By 1968, 300 similar camps were established in the U.S. By 1969, there were officially 26 states particpating in the Special Olympics movement.

Frederick County began particpation in the mid to late 70's as a school based program, with home base being Rock Creek School. Five sports were offered. In 1979, 3 Frederick County athletes traveled to the University of New York at Brockport to represent Maryland in the fifth International Special Olympics Summer Games. In the sixth International Special Olympics Summer Games, Frederick County had 5 athletes attend to help represent Maryland. In 1985, 5 skiers were choosen to attend the second International Special Olympics Winter Games.

Twenty years later, Frederick County is no longer a school based program. The Frederick County Special Olympics Program is open to individuals of all ages, from all facets of the community, with intellectual disabilities. Frederick County now offers 16 of the 20 sports offered in Maryland. We currently serve over 200 athletes and recruit numerous volunteers. We host 5 athletic competitions a year. Frederick County continues to be the only county in Maryland that offers gymnastics. Uniquely, we also offer many social events such as dances, zoo trips, and professional sporting events.

In 2004, Frederick County Special Olympics was proud to be named "County of the Year" by Special Olympics of Maryland.