Photo Credit: AbilityPath.org

Kids of all ages face the threat of bullies each and every day. But part of the population that is generally an afterthought to the problem is children with special needs.

Now, AbilityPath.org, in collaboration with Special Olympics and Best Buddies, is launching the “Disable Bullying” campaign, which will engage a coalition of parents, educators and policymakers into the ongoing problem.

The “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes” report released by AbilityPath.org, an online hub and special needs community for parents and professionals of children with disabilities, found a “silent epidemic of bullying” children with special needs.

“This important report confirms the presence of a silent epidemic in our schools and communities,” said Timothy Shriver, Chairman of the Special Olympics.

In response to the report, Peninsula Congresswoman Jackie Speier said she would brief members of Congress about the problem. And California Superintendent of Schools Tom Torlakson is calling on schools to raise the level of awareness of bullying.

“Glee” actress Lauren Potter, who plays a student with Down syndrome on the show, will represent the campaign as a spokesperson and be featured in its online public service announcements.

Click here for more information.

• Tag: Best Buddies, bullying, Disable Bullying, kids, special needs, Special Olympics