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May 24, 2008-- Although the official deadline has passed, volunteers still are being sought to help make this year's games memorable for the athletes. Whether you choose to cheer on the participants or work on the track, your assistance is needed to make these games happen. "This is a great event. We have 35 county programs from around the state participating," said Linda Quinn, SOWV's Director of Field Services. "That's approximately 900 athletes and 300 to 400 coaches and chaperones. We recruit 800 volunteers from the community to run the different activities." And right now, that quota has not been met. It is really easy to be a Special Olympics volunteer. Just fill out an application if you are a new volunteer or you haven't volunteered with the program in the past three years. (If you have volunteered within the last three years, you still need to fill out an event schedule.) "A policy is mandated by Special Olympics International and Special Olympics West Virginia that requires all volunteers to complete an application with an attached copy of ID," Quinn said. "You will also be asked to show a form of identification upon registration at the event. "If you are a minor, you must have your parent or guardian sign the application, and you must complete the page that asks for two references." Quinn assures potential volunteers that all application information is kept confidential. She says information will only be used in the event of an emergency that involves you at a Special Olympics event. Once Quinn receives your application and schedule, she will fill the volunteer positions accordingly. She says she will consider your volunteer preferences when assigning duties. After that, "you will be sent a notification of your assigned schedule and registration information, which includes directions, etc.," she said. "At registration, volunteers will receive a t-shirt and volunteer credential to be worn at the event." She also noted that lunch will be provided for Saturday's workers. If you are interested in making a difference in one of these athletes' lives, it is not too late to register. Though the SOWV Web site is currently down for maintenance, people can contact Quinn by phone at 345-9310 or through e-mail at
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. "We look forward to working with the volunteers to provide a memorable experience for all involved, especially the Special Olympics West Virginia athletes," Quinn said. Source/Writer: The Charleston Gazette
By: Cynthia Hager |
