Special Olympics Indiana utilizes volunteers to accomplish a wide variety of tasks associated with the mission of providing a year-round program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Both individuals and groups volunteer. Generally, there are three types of volunteers. Here is a description of each, and examples of the kinds of jobs within each category:

Administration & Program Management
Serve as a member of a committee to plan, coordinate, and/or monitor activities which promote the Special Olympics Indiana mission. Minimum one-year commitment involving regularly scheduled meetings and individual assignments associated with the position.

• Secretary / Record Keeping
• Treasurer
• Fundraising Coordinator
• Sports Coordinator
• Volunteer Coordinator

Coaching
Work directly with athletes to improve their skills in specific sports. Participation is seasonal, depending on the sport. Weekly commitment of at least two hours per week for eight weeks preceding competitions. Coaches:

• Attend training to learn sports rules and coaching principles.
• Recruit and train assistant coaches.
• Recruit eligible athletes; always try to expand program.
• Help athletes select an appropriate sport and level of participation.
• Offer a range of sports activities or events to suit all ability levels.
• Provide a safe training and competition program.
• Involve families and other outside support groups.
• Assist athletes in becoming integrated into the overall community.

Unified Sports® Partner
Special Olympics Unified Sports® is a program that brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities of similar age and athletic ability to train and compete on the same sports teams. The Unified Sports program is a wonderful way for family members and friends to spend time training and competing with Special Olympics athletes. For more information about the Unified Sports program in Indiana, click here or call Special Olympics Indiana at (800) 742-0612 or check with your County Program Coordinator for opportunities in your area.

Event Volunteer
Perform short-term tasks associated with a Special Olympics Indiana sports event or fundraising event. This is usually a one-day commitment of four to eight hours. Day-of-event volunteers may:

• Escort athletes.
• Serve meals.
• Officiate games.
• Register volunteers and event participants.
• Keep score.
• Present awards.
• Provide first aid.
• Set up/tear down equipment.
• Help with post-event clean-up.
• Assist with event hospitality.

Office Support
Perform tasks associated with supporting administrative and program functions: computer, typing, office coverage, mailing, etc. Generally four scheduled hours per week during office hours (8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday).