The highly anticipated Special Olympics in St. Albert are just weeks away and the organizers are anxiously asking for the public’s help.
Of the 400 opportunities available, approximately 300 are still open. With the countdown now at 23 days, volunteer co-ordinator Leanne Mullen is starting to feel the pressure.
“Just trying to get the word out there has been our big push,” she said. “Right now we are looking for everybody and anybody who is willing to come out and give us a hand. The volunteer forms are a little slow to come in right now. We are expecting — and hoping — that it picks up.”
She said she understands people wait until the last minute or when a public announcement is made about the need. As far as she’s concerned this is the homestretch and she’s asking the community to pitch in.
Mullen added that many of the openings are not that difficult. The list includes handing out water bottles, timekeeping, helping with lunches and banquets, unloading and loading athletes into buses, manning the registration booth, directing participants to events and delivering results to the main office.
“There’s just about everything. You name it, we need it.”
Right now the biggest deficiencies are with power lifting, and some certified volunteers are required for the swimming events. They also have some spots for people who are comfortable with public speaking.
“Somebody who’s not scared of getting on the mike and announcing the results … we need a few of those in a few of our areas.”
If you are interested in helping but don’t know quite what to do, the organizing body can train you.
“If they are willing and able, we will show them what needs to be done.”
The three-day games take place from June 26 to 28. Over 1,000 people from 114 communities will engage in eight sports events. It promises to be a positive and life-affirming weekend for both the athletes and the supporters.
For more information or to get involved as a volunteer, go to www.stalbertspecialolympics2009.com. There is a registration form that includes the different positions and time slots. You can also contact the organizers at 780-460-7009 or [email protected].
