How can I become a Special Olympics Canada volunteer?

You must be 14 years of age or older to be a volunteer with Special Olympics. Most recurring volunteer roles will require an interview, references, a police reference check and training. The first step is to choose what type of volunteer role you are interested in. The next step is to complete the online application form located on your local Provincial or Territorial Chapter website.

Your application form will be forwarded to a community registrar or your program of interest. A member of Special Olympics will then contact you about your application. Based on your interests and availability we’ll connect you with an opportunity near you!

How does Special Olympics train volunteers?

All volunteers will receive both formal and informal training while getting registered, including a volunteer orientation. The type of volunteer role will determine the depth of training required. For example, coaches are required to take at least one of the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) courses. Please visit our Coaching roles page for more information.

What is the first step for new volunteers?

In order to make sure that both our athletes and volunteers get the most out of our programs, Special Olympics Canada has developed an online volunteer orientation to provide information to new volunteers on what we do, who we serve and what they need to know to get started.

If you have already signed up as a Special Olympics Canada volunteer, please visit www.solearn.ca to access the online orientation.

Further information for volunteers

Please visit our Resources for volunteers page for important documents and information for volunteers.