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Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Special Olympics?
There are several events held throughout the year including 4 State Games and numerous special events and area competitions. To view upcoming events, visit our calendar.
How do I volunteer?
Please read the steps listed on the Volunteer page. There are day of event volunteer opportunities listed on the Volunteer page. If you are interested in volunteering for a single day event, you would need to complete the Event Volunteer Registration form attached to the event listed online. For Coaching/Unified Partner volunteer opportunities you would need to request a Class “A” Volunteer Application from the Volunteer Manager. Once completed, send the form into the state office. Once your form is received, you will be placed on the volunteer list and will begin receiving the monthly e-newsletter, which lists upcoming volunteer opportunities, plus occasional emails with news in regards to events. It is the volunteers’ responsibility to register for an event or inform the Volunteer Manager what events you would like to volunteer for, so it is important to read the e-newsletter and to visit the SOCO website to check for updates.
What is the Protective Behaviors Training?
Protective Behaviors is a training program for volunteers to help prevent the sexual, physical and emotional abuse of Special Olympic athletes. It consists of an 18 page online training and then a 10 question test. To complete the training, volunteers must correctly answer 10 out of 10 questions. After you have finished and submitted the test, a confirmation email will be sent to you and SOCO, who will keep a record of your training. Click here to complete the Protective Behaviors training.
Do I need to take the Protective Behaviors Training?
It is MANDATORY that all Class A volunteers, 16 years or older, take the Protective Behaviors Training. Class A volunteers are defined as volunteers who have regular, close physical contact with athletes; volunteers in a position of authority or supervision with athletes; volunteers in a position of trust with athletes; volunteers who handle substantial amounts of cash or other assets of the program. However, we highly encourage ALL volunteers to complete the training because it is an excellent training on how to look out for and prevent the abuse of our athletes.
How often do I need to complete the Protective Behaviors Training?
You only need to complete the training every 3 years, along with your application or renewal application. SOCO records everyone that has completed the training and the information is kept in our database.
Where can I see a list of upcoming SOCO events that you need volunteers for?
Visit our Volunteer page to see a list of upcoming events that you can volunteer for. An online registration form will be attached to each event where volunteers are needed. You can also sign up to receive the SOCO e-newsletter, which lists updated volunteer opportunities. If you see an event that you are interested in volunteering for, please contact Kady Moore, Volunteer and Family Manager, by email or phone 720-359-3103.
What are the volunteer age requirements?
We invite volunteers of any age to come out to volunteer, but if you are 8 years of age and older, a volunteer application is required. Any volunteer under the age of 16, must be accompanied by an adult when volunteering.
How do I volunteer with an area program close to me?
Visit our calendar to register online for a local event or contact your Area Manager for a list of local opportunities in your area.
How do I become a SOCO coach?
To become a coach, you must get certified through SOCO in the sport that you wish to coach. Contact Jenny Chase with any questions.
If I am already a coach, how often do I need to renew my Class A volunteer application?
Class A volunteer applications expire 3 years after your initial application date. There is a Renewal application available to all Existing Coaches for those who are not new volunteers and just need to renew their application.
What is the time commitment for volunteering?
Volunteer shift times vary depending on the event. Volunteers are required to stay for the entire shift that they are assigned to, and usually shift times run 3 – 5 hours long. Schedules are always flexible before an event as long as the volunteer notifies the state office before the event.
What is the difference between a State Game and a special event?
The State Games are Olympic type competitions that are held four times a year. This is where athletic competitions take place for an entire weekend. The state games require anywhere from 100 volunteers to 500 volunteers.
Special Events are smaller than State Games in regards to the number of athletes and volunteers. Usually these events are day only. Athletes may be in attendance at these events but they are not competing.
Where are events held?
Events are held throughout Colorado.
How can I get a group/my company involved?
We are always looking for groups and companies to get involved with SOCO. Certain events, like the State Games, are much larger and require more volunteers than some of our special events, so they are usually more appropriate for groups. You can register a group online or contact Kady Moore, Volunteer and Family Manager, by email or phone 720-359-3103 to get your group involved.
If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, click here.
Do you need administrative help in the office?
We are always looking for volunteers who can come into the SOCO state office to help with general office duties. We are looking for help during regular business hours. If you would like to volunteer in the SOCO office, please contact Kady Moore, Volunteer and Family Manager, by email or phone 720-359-3103 to set up a schedule.
I need to keep track of my volunteer hours for school, work, etc. How do I get a record of my volunteer time?
You can bring a volunteer form with you for someone to sign at the event or you can contact Kady Moore, Volunteer and Family Manager, by email or phone 720-359-3103 after the event and she will send you a letter with your volunteer hours.
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