Become a Volunteer

I have learned so much because of my involvement. What really matters and what really keeps me motivated are the athletes and parents who can't imagine their lives without Special Olympics.

–Maureen Hunter, Special Olympics BC – Campbell River Local Coordinator

Thank you for your interest to volunteer with Special Olympics BC! Our year-round sport programs and events provide life-changing experiences for athletes with intellectual disabilities across 55 communities in B.C. Thousands of volunteers play a critical role in the lives of Special Olympics athletes – in sport, administration, health, fundraising, and youth programs. But we need your help to provide more opportunities for athletes to find success, joy, fitness, and friendships in an inclusive community. In as little as an hour a week, you can change lives, including your own!

A speed skating athlete in a yellow helmet fist bumps his coach as he exits the ice.

Register Now

Join our joyful community today and register as a volunteer!

Who Can Volunteer?

You don’t need a sport background to volunteer with Special Olympics BC. All you need is a desire to enrich the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and strengthen inclusion through the power and joy of sport!

Special Olympics BC offers a wide range of meaningful volunteer roles across our year-round sport, youth, and health programs and events. We provide training, tools, and ongoing support to enable your successful involvement and professional development.

Minimum requirements for all volunteers:

  • Must be 14 years of age or older

  • Must live and/or work in British Columbia

Volunteers ages 16 and up must complete a Police Information Check – Vulnerable Screening prior to beginning involvement with athletes.

Why Volunteer with Special Olympics BC?

There are many reasons to get involved, and many benefits, including:

  • Building friendships and networking connections

  • Developing new skills for personal and professional development

  • Gaining volunteer hours for school programs

  • Getting involved with your community

  • Sharing your love of sport

  • And, most of all, experiencing the joy of working with athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who value their Special Olympics programs and community so much!

How Do I Get Involved?

Contact your local program by finding their details and contact info on our communities pages, or register here as a new volunteer!

A figure skater holds a small bouquet of flowers and teddy bear while sitting and smiling with his coach.

Register Now

Join our joyful community today and register as a volunteer!

Learn More About Our Volunteer Opportunities

Special Olympics BC athlete high fives a fellow athlete after their race.

Are you a new volunteer who has already registered with your local program?

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Corporate/Group Volunteering

Special Olympics BC Kits For a Cause Program

Kits for a Cause Logo

Looking for an engaging corporate/group volunteering or team building activity?

Make a difference through our Special Olympics BC - Kits For A Cause Program. Help assemble “care kits” for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This program was developed to accommodate groups of all sizes, whether you're volunteering with friends, family, colleagues, or on
your own from groups of 5 to 5,000.

For more information, email info@kitsforacause.com or fill out the inquiry form here. The team will guide you through the process and ensure a seamless experience.