Supporting Exceptionally Awesome Kids:

How Maricopa Families and Programs Are Building Inclusive Community

At Maricopa Lifestyle Magazine, we believe a strong community is measured by how well it supports all families. Across Maricopa, parents, volunteers, and local organizations are quietly doing extraordinary work to ensure children of all abilities are seen, supported, and celebrated.

Two local efforts—SPEAK Maricopa and Home of the Mustangs (Special Olympics Arizona – Maricopa)—stand as powerful examples of what happens when compassion meets action.

A Safe Space for Parents: SPEAK Maricopa

Founded in 2014, SPEAK Maricopa – Supporting Parents of Exceptionally Awesome Kids is a private, community-driven support group created to help parents navigate the unique journey of raising children with exceptional needs (3) SPEAK Maricopa - Supporting….

With more than 600 local members, the group provides:

• Peer-to-peer encouragement

• Resource sharing

• Emotional support from parents who understand firsthand

SPEAK Maricopa exists to remind families they are not alone—and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. The group’s long-standing presence reflects the growing need for connection, understanding, and advocacy within our city.

SPEAK Maricopa – Supporting Parents of Exceptionally Awesome Kids

• Facebook Group:👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/774265292605068/

Empowering Athletes Through Sports: Home of the Mustangs

For many Maricopa families, athletics provide more than recreation—they offer confidence, structure, and belonging. Home of the Mustangs, the local chapter of Special Olympics Arizona, gives athletes with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to compete, grow, and shine Home of the Mustangs.

The Mustangs program offers year-round participation in sports including:

• Basketball & cheerleading

• Bowling

• Golf

• Bocce

With 2026 season registration now open, athletes, volunteers, and coaches are encouraged to get involved and help expand inclusive sports opportunities in Maricopa Home of the Mustangs - Registra….

Upcoming competitions—ranging from regional powerlifting to state basketball and cheer—highlight the dedication of athletes and the volunteers who support them every step of the way.

Home of the Mustangs – Special Olympics Arizona (Maricopa)

• Main Website:👉 https://www.specialolympicsaz.com/

• Maricopa Mustangs Page:👉 https://www.specialolympicsaz.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawPkWstleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF1YkZ1TXVzWENXVjY3M2VZc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMD

  
  

Why This Matters

Programs like SPEAK Maricopa and Home of the Mustangs do more than provide services—they strengthen families and foster understanding across the community. They remind us that inclusion is not a slogan; it’s a daily practice.

When parents are supported and children are empowered, the entire city benefits.

Athlete, Volunteer & Coach Registration

• Registration Portal:👉 https://www.specialolympicsaz.com/registration

How You Can Help

• Join or support SPEAK Maricopa if you are a parent seeking community or resources

• Register an athlete, coach, or volunteer with Home of the Mustangs

• Attend events, cheer on athletes, or share these programs with families who may benefit

Maricopa is at its best when neighbors lift one another—and these organizations are leading the way.

Maricopa Lifestyle Magazine proudly highlights the people and programs that make our city a place where every family belongs.