Special Olympics competitions are held year-round in more than 160 countries across the globe. It is only through the generosity of thousands of volunteers that the movement can ensure that all Special Olympics events provide the highest quality experience for our athletes. Special Olympics is grateful to all volunteers, including those who can offer as little as one afternoon a year to assist at local, state/provincial or national events. Volunteer Charles Spencer shows off the sandwiches (not to mention his extensive pin collection!) he distributed for lunch as a volunteer for the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games catering operation. [Photo by Marc O'Sullivan, IRELAND OUT] Event-specific volunteering (see our list of potential event-specific opportunities for ideas on how you can volunteer for Special Olympics) is a great opportunity for individuals who want a limited time commitment. All volunteers are given a brief orientation prior to the event; most volunteer positions are easy to learn and do not require any previous experience in order to qualify for the assignment. "Day of" volunteers assist in all areas of sports competition. From presenting athlete awards to serving as scorekeepers or assisting with food service, no task is overlooked or under-appreciated. Special Olympics also offers non Games-related volunteer opportunities, including fundraising and Law Enforcement Torch Run events. For information about event-specific volunteer opportunities available in your community, contact your local Special Olympics Program. To locate a Program near you, use our Program Locator. Potential Event-Specific Opportunities Volunteers help Special Olympics athletes into their boats at St. Georges Yacht Club, site of the sailing events at the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Dublin, Ireland. [Photo by Gerry McGuinness] Following is a list of potential event-specific volunteer opportunities. Available opportunities vary from Special Olympics Program to Program. Announcer Athlete Escort Awards Presenter Competition Volunteer Family Services — assist with entertainment, information and welcoming athletes' families in competition venues and hospitality areas. Food Services Healthy Athletes® — Based in clinics at selected venues, medical staff help to improve the general health and fitness of athletes by providing screening and education in the disciplines of optometry, dentistry, audiology, physiotherapy, podiatry and nutrition. Lane Escort Lane Judge Motor Activities Training Program (MATP) — MATP is designed for persons with severe limitations who do not yet possess the physical and/or behavioral skills necessary to participate in official Special Olympics sports. Volunteer jobs include: MATP Coordinator MATP Trainer MATP Challenge Day Coordinator MATP Support Volunteer Instructor at sport-specific Coach Clinics (requires sport specific knowledge, expertise and experience) Scorekeeper Timer Transportation — assists with all transportation needs of participants. Must have a valid driver's license and a clean driving record. Venue Services — assists with completion of venue facilities prior to the event and returning the venue to its original state after the event (assistance moving equipment, erecting signs, etc.) Additional Non Games-Specific Volunteer Opportunities Fundraising — volunteer your services at specific fundraising events. The Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics — the Torch Run is Special Olympics' largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle.