GIVE A LITTLE. GAIN A LOT.

Speak with any of our coaches or other volunteers, and a singular message resounds: the joy they receive from helping our athletes surpasses any amount of time they dedicate.  Our volunteers pour their hearts into supporting our athletes, yet what they receive in return is immeasurable – a deep sense of inspiration and pure happiness. Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s about changing lives – both theirs and yours.

Special Olympics Rhode Island wouldn’t be possible without our amazing volunteers. Every year, over 3,000 volunteers dedicate their time and energy, helping more than 3,500 children and adults with intellectual disabilities participate in sports and achieve their dreams. Volunteers are the backbone of our movement.

We have opportunities for both Ongoing and Short-Term/Event volunteers. Ongoing roles typically require an 8-week commitment of 1-2 hours per week, where volunteers work directly with athletes, take on leadership roles, or handle finances. Short-term roles are for events and require only a partial day’s commitment. No experience is necessary for either type of volunteering.

To assist us in better understanding your volunteering preferences, please complete a brief Volunteer Interest Form. We also encourage you to explore the descriptions of our volunteer opportunities below.

SHORT-TERM VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Short-Term/Event (Class B) volunteers assist with activities that take place the day of a sporting or fundraising event. Volunteering for an event requires only a small time commitment, and no experience is necessary. A brief orientation will be provided before the event. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old or accompanied by an adult.

Event Volunteer roles may include:

  • Escorting athletes
  • Presenting awards to athletes
  • Keeping score or time for events
  • Announcing events
  • Assisting with set-up and/or breakdown

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVENT VOLUNTEERS AND REGISTRATION
Visit our Event Volunteer Opportunities page to discover upcoming events and register!

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SORI 2023 Game-62-CROPPED

ONGOING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Ongoing (Class A) volunteers have direct contact with athletes or serve in positions of authority, supervision and trust of athletes or handle cash or other assets for SORI. The typical time commitment is 1 to 2 hours per week for 8 weeks leading up to all state level events.

Roles include:

  • Coaches or Assistant Coaches
  • Local Team Volunteers
  • Unified Sports® Partners
  • Chaperones
  • Hometown Escorts
  • Medical Personnel
  • Security Personnel
  • Games Management Team
  • Photographer/Videographer
  • Board Members

LEARN HOW TO GET STARTED

Complete a Class A Volunteer Application. The application can be filled out, saved as a PDF, and emailed to volunteer@specialolympicsri.org or printed and mailed to Special Olympics Rhode Island, Attn: Louise Miller, 370 George Washington Highway, Smithfield, RI 02917

IF YOU ARE 18 OR OLDER

Complete and submit a Class A Volunteer Form,  take the online Protective Behaviors Training, complete the General Orientation and Quiz, and review the Volunteer Code of Conduct.

IF YOU ARE UNDER 18

Complete and submit a Class A Volunteer Form and a minor Reference Form.

QUESTIONS?

If you have questions or would like additional information about Ongoing or Short-term/Event volunteer opportunities, please contact Louise Miller at 401-349-4900.