Thank you, Volunteers.

The theme for National Volunteer Week 2024 is Every Moment Matters. It highlights the importance of every volunteer and each contribution they make at a moment when we need support more than ever. The sharing of time, skills and compassion is vital to the inclusivity, strength and wellbeing of our communities.

Volunteers are fundamental to meeting this challenging moment. By coming together, committing support, and increasing our collective efforts and impact, we contribute exponentially to the quality of life we all strive for.  

It’s in these moments, and the relationships between them, that we find greater purpose and a sense of belonging. By connecting and engaging with community, we come to know our importance. Volunteering matters. And by sharing these moments, we co-create the neighbourhoods, culture and society we want to live in.  

During National Volunteer Week 2024, we come together to recognize and celebrate the importance of each and every volunteer’s impact from coast to coast to coast. Now more than ever, Every Moment Matters.

Help us celebrate Special Olympics
volunteers across Canada

SHARE A MESSAGE TO CHEER ON THE VOLUNTEERS IN YOUR LIFE

Volunteers are the backbone of our movement – they give their time and talents so that Special Olympics athletes have the opportunity to participate, find a community, develop skills and compete from grassroots to Games.

Think about all the volunteers who have been a part of your Special Olympics experience. What do they mean to you?

Our volunteers give their all to cheer you on – now it’s time for us to cheer for them.

CELEBRATE NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Download a Special Olympics Canada 'Happy National Volunteer Week' graphic to post on social media or share one of your own photos with Special Olympics Canada's National Volunteer Week filter.

 Join our winning team.

Special Olympics coaches offer more than sport instruction: They are teachers, role models, mentors, and friends. As a Special Olympics coach, you bring enthusiasm, commitment and a positive attitude to each practice, event and competition, enriching the lives of each of the athletes with an intellectual disability that you meet.

In return, you develop meaningful connections with athletes who inspire you with their dedication, perseverance, and courage. You learn new skills, meet new people, and gain unique experiences, enriching your own life in turn.

Becoming a volunteer with Special Olympics

Our volunteers are all ages, and their commitments can range from an afternoon to a lifetime. From coaching to scorekeeping to registration - there's a role for you. If you haven't engaged with individuals with an intellectual disability before, don't worry, we'll train you.

Special Olympics is about transforming lives, including your own. It’s about a spirit of teamwork and inclusion. It's about making your community a more welcoming and accepting place for people of all abilities.

Sign up for more information on becoming a volunteer with Special Olympics:

 

new Volunteer Orientation course

The new Special Olympics Canada Volunteer Orientation course is an interactive eLearning module designed to equip volunteers with the information they need to step up their game or get started volunteering in their community. At the end of the module, participants will complete a Knowledge Check to receive credit for completing the course.

The course will take approximately 30-45 minutes to complete and is designed as a resource for:

  • New coaches and volunteers
  • Individuals interested in volunteering
  • Experienced coaches and volunteers who want to refresh their skills
  • Special Olympics staff and Board members

Visit SO Learn and create an account to register for the complimentary volunteer orientation course:

 VIsit SO Learn

Meet Special Olympics Volunteers
from across the country

Marie Powell, Alberta

Michel Guyon, Québec

Kevin Binns, Yukon

Brandon Gibbs, Ontario