Apply to be a Volunteer or Coach

A group photo of multiple athletes, coaches, and volunteers standing against an orange brick wall. Everyone is smiling for the camera and wearing casual clothes.

So you want to be a volunteer?

Special Olympics would not exist today - and could not have been created - without the time, energy, commitment, and enthusiasm of people just like you, individuals who choose to take a little time from busy schedules to make the world a better place. More than 650 SONL volunteers and coaches across the province make our programs possible and make a difference in the lives of our athletes.

Two individuals are posing and smiling for the camera. The athlete on the right is wearing a red jersey and has a medal around his neck. The individual on the left is wearing a yellow collared t-shirt and has his arm around the back of the athlete. They are standing in a room, and are in front of a trophy case.

Who can volunteer?

You don’t need a sport background to volunteer with SONL. All you need is enthusiasm for helping empower people with intellectual disabilities through sport. Many volunteer positions are available including coaching roles (head coach, assistant coach, program leader) and operational volunteer and/or administration roles.

Volunteer Roles

A sports team, out on the field in black and orange jerseys, with their arms up in the air cheering.

Why volunteer with SONL?

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 our athletes

How to Become a Volunteer

1

Step 1: Reaching Out! Contact Us!

Or call us at (709) 738 1923 or 1-877-738-1913

2

Step 2: Fill out the Volunteer Registration Form

Your local club will provide you with a Volunteer Registration Form.

3

Step 3: Screening - Complete a Criminal Record Check Form

You can obtain this form from your local RCMP/RNC. This is strictly for risk management purposes to ensure that all volunteers and athletes are safe and protected.

4

Step 4: Submission of Forms

Submit the completed Volunteer Registration Form and Criminal Record Check to your Special Olympics Club Coordinator.

5

Step 5: Clearance to Volunteer

After the local club processes your information you will be contacted. Once you have been contacted you will be asked to complete online Volunteer Orientation Training! Once this training has been completed you will be an accredited Special Olympics Newfoundland & Labrador Volunteer!