Eunice Kennedy Shriver was an American philanthropist, best remembered for her contribution to charities for intellectually disabled people and for starting the 'Special Olympics,' the first-ever sports and athletic event for people with special needs. A prominent member of the Kennedy family, Shriver began her philanthropical pursuits at the 'Federal Industrial Institution for Women.' After she joined the 'Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation' as the executive vice president, Shriver began focusing more on improving the lives of mentally disabled children. She was a founding member of numerous university programs, health-care facilities, and government initiatives in the U.S., working to treat such incapacitated people. Shriver's immeasurable contributions have been acknowledged by many institutes, universities, and organizations that have honored her with awards, recognitions, and honorary degrees.