For Volunteers
VOLUNTEERING WITH SPECIAL OLYMPICS KANSAS
Volunteers are the backbone of Special Olympics. If you are seeking a volunteer opportunity that can make a difference in both your life and the lives of others, Special Olympics needs you. As a Volunteer-driven organization, we rely on dedicated volunteers of all ages to assist in many aspects of the program. Each year, 20,000 dedicated volunteers in Kansas share their time and enthusiasm to provide quality sports programs for all individuals with intellectual disabilities. From coaches to trainers, officials, scorekeepers, timers and fundraisers, Special Olympics Kansas works with your help and support.
You can find a wide variety of volunteer opportunities with Special Olympics Kansas right here on this page!
Click Here for Day of Event/Competition Volunteer Opportunities.
VOLUNTEERING BOOSTS YOUR ATTITUDE
In simple terms, when you help others, you get a positive feeling in return. A smile from a Special Olympics athlete will put a smile on your face. Most events involve physical activity and being outdoors which is good for your health. You will enjoy interacting with new friends including athletes, fellow volunteers, and supporters.
YOU DECIDE YOUR TIME COMMITMENT
You decide how much time you want to give and what tasks you want to do. You can challenge yourself with new expericnes or do what you already do best. You can always change your mind and try something else. Special Olympics welcomes volunteers who can give a few hours as well as those who want to dive into a year-round commitment.
YOU CAN BE THE ONE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
The key to making a difference is getting involved with an organization whose ideas work. Several studies have documented that Special Olympics improves the physical fitness and self-confidence of a person with intellectual disabilities. On an individual level, you can speak with any athlete’s family member or teach and hear firsthand the positive impact the program has had on his or her live.
DAY OF EVENT OPPORTUNITIES
Check out our Day of Event Volunteer Guide!
Day of event volunteers perform short-term tasks associated with conducting competitions (i.e. help with meals, awards, staging, registration, officiating, timekeeping, escort, set-up/clean-up, etc). We accept volunteers aged 10 and older (10-15 must have adult supervision; 16+ may volunteer independently). Volunteer Age Guidelines
The time commitment is about a four hour shift, one or more days each year.
Jump in! We have events happening year round, and are always excited about new volunteers. Click on the large button below to see volunteer opportunities.
OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
GROUP
OPPORTUNITIES
Gather your friends, coworkers or classmates and volunteer as a group at a regional or state competition or fundraising event. With group volunteering you can make a greater impact in a short period of time while bonding with each other. The time commitment is about four hour shifts, one or more days each year.
If you’d like to discuss group volunteer options contact Makenzie Al-Arahshun.
COACHING
OPPORTUNITIES
Our teams need coaches and assistants! Coaches and Assistant Coaches play a unique and indispensable role in Special Olympics Kansas. They provide the sports skills and spirit that define a true athlete and serve as role models and character builders.
The time commitment is usually 8-12 weeks per sport. You will be required to attend weekly practices usually 1 hour per week in addition to 2 competitions which are roughly 6 hours each. Note: Some state competitions are more than 1 day requiring travel and overnight stay.
FUNDRAISING
EVENTS
Plan and/or implement activities to raise financial and in-kind support. With 40+ events per year, there are many opportunities to help; from passing out water at a 5K run, to registration at a Polar Plunge, to coordinating a Truck Convoy. The time commitment ranges from three to four hours for a single event to one year as an event management team member.
Contact Luke Schulte for more information.
STILL NEED HELP?
Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.
