Volunteers are responsible for making Special Olympics happen! It is their caring and hard work that bring so much happiness into the lives of local athletes.
More than 500 volunteers organize and run local Special Olympics programs, serving as coaches, Games officials, drivers, and in many other capacities. Anyone can learn how to participate through the many training programs Special Olympics offers for coaches, officials, and volunteers. Volunteers are given jobs that fit their individual skills and interests. The opportunities throughout the organization are diverse-sports officials, scorekeepers, photographers, public speakers, and fund raisers are a few examples of the hundreds of positions that are available.
You are invited to participate as a volunteer and share in the exciting personal victories of Santa Barbara's Special Olympics! Special Olympics volunteer needs include:
- Coaches - coaches and assistant coaches have the opportunity to help athletes train in their specific sport. All of our sports offer direct interaction with athletes, and a chance to make a difference in their lives. You do not have to be a sports professional - we provide the training and certification in any of our sports. .
- Fund raisers - plan or participate in fund raising activities that benefit Special Olympians.
- Corporate Volunteer - involve your company or civic organization in a state or local sports event.
- Event coordinators - event coordinators and assistants have the chance to organize sporting events and other activities for the athletes.
- Special Events - can serve on special events as a driver or food service worker or assist with registration. Volunteers can be athlete escorts and keep score or times. All of these activities take place the day of the sporting event and are a great opportunity for individuals who want to start a commitment or for high school community service hours.
- Player - in our Unified Sports programs, non-disabled athletes train and participate with Special Olympians on a unified team.
- Professional Expertise - use your skills and talents to help fulfill the Special Olympics mission.
- Office/Clerical Support (1 day a week) - office assistants can help with filing, copying and typing. It is also possible to help with copy writing, photography, and publicizing. Volunteers can also take part in telephone campaigns to inform people about Special Olympics.
- Computer Data Entry - data entry for Area Games.
- Photographer
- Sign Makers
- Committee Members
- Writers
- Trucks and Truck drivers
- Class B drivers
Special Olympics is a year-round program so your help is appreciated at any time. You can volunteer before, during and after Games or special events, or you can assist with the important planning and preparation that goes on all year.
Almost anyone can become a Special Olympics volunteer.
If you would like more information, please contact Sara Spataro or Ali Sprott-Roen at the Santa Barbara Special Olympics office, 805-884-1516. Or, click here for our contact page.
