The Special Olympics will return to the United States for the first time in 16 years in 2015, when they are held here in Los Angeles.

Timothy Shriver, chairman of the unique organization, made the announcement yesterday. His sister, Maria Shriver, former first lady of California and a prominent journalist, was present for the announcement. Their late mother, Eunice Shriver, founded the Special Olympics, which have literally changed the world, remaking it to accommodate people with disabilities and celebrate their accomplishments.

Mrs. Shriver is remembered fondly in Santa Monica, as she went door-to-door on behalf of her son, Bobby, when he ran for election to the Santa Monica City Council.

The 2015 games will bring more than 7000 Special Olympics athletes from 170 nations to Los Angeles to compete in 21 Olympic-type sports. Specific dates for the summer of 2015 remain to be decided. Some events will be held at Griffith Park, Staples Center and the Home Depot Center, with athlete housing at USC and UCLA.