Thank you, Volunteers.

The theme for National Volunteer Week 2025 is “Volunteers Make Waves” — a celebration of the powerful impact volunteers have in communities across Canada. Like waves, every action creates a ripple effect — building momentum, inspiring others, and shaping a more connected, inclusive world.

Volunteers are fundamental to the Special Olympics movement. From coast to coast to coast, they make sport more accessible, communities more welcoming, and lives more fulfilling — for thousands of athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

When volunteers come together and commit their time, energy and heart, they help build the kind of world we all want to live in — one rooted in respect, belonging and joy.

This week, and every week, we celebrate the volunteers who are making waves in our movement. Thank you for everything you do.

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 intellectual or developmental disabilities 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.

Become a Volunteer

Volunteer Orientation course

The 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: