Special Olympics New York's mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports for both children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them enduring opportunities to demonstrate courage, develop physical fitness, experience joy, and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and their community.

Special Olympics New York (SONY) is the largest program in the United States and one of the largest programs in the world.

SONY is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, funded chiefly by donations from individuals, corporations and foundations. Special Olympics New York never charges athletes, their families or caregivers to train or to participate.