Volunteer Roles
Volunteer Roles
Each volunteer opportunity falls into one of two categories based on its responsibility level and time commitment.
Class A – A long-term opportunity that involves having close physical contact with athletes on a regular basis or being in a position of authority, supervision and trust with athletes and within the organization.
Class B – A short-term opportunity that involves providing assistance and support at a competition or event, but not necessarily in close physical contact with our athletes.
| Role | Class | Description | Commitment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competitions *Most Popular* |
B | Perform short-term tasks associated with conducting competitions (i.e., timer, scorekeeper, escort, etc.) | Four-hour shifts, one or more days each year |
| Coach | A | Work directly with athletes to improve their skills in specific Special Olympics sports | Participation is seasonal for each sport - the usual commitment is two hours per week for a minimum of eight weeks |
| Unified Partner | A | Train and compete with athletes as part of Unified Sports team | Participation is seasonal for each sport - generally one or two practices per week throughout the season |
| Delegation Volunteer | A | Assist coaches during practice | Participation is seasonal for each sport - generally one or two practices per week throughout the season |
| Competition & Event Committee | A | Work with Competition/Event Management Committees to plan and manage competition and fundraising events | Commitment begins 4-6 months before competition or event date - specific hours will vary with position |
| Medical | A | Provide basic first aid at competitions Please note that this role requires medical training and certification. |
Four- to eight-hour shifts, one or more days a year |
| Fundraising | A or B | Plan and/or implement activities to raise financial and in-kind support | Commitment ranges from three to four hours for a single event (Class B) to one year as a committee member (Class A) |
| Public Relations | A or B | Prepare and/or convey information about Special Olympics to various media outlets | Commitment ranges from a few hours for one specific activity (Class B) to a year long commitment as a committee member (Class A) |
| Official | A | Serve as a referee, official, or judge at competitions Please note that this role requires training and/or certification in specific sport. |
Commitment ranges from a few hours for a local or area competition to 2-3 days at a state competition |
| Office Support | B | Tasks associated with supporting administrative and program functions | Generally, four pre-scheduled hours per week |
