Volunteer Training Program
Special Olympics Georgia depends on hundreds of volunteers to do everything from raise and administer funds to train and coach athletes, to pick up when the games are done. We support our volunteers by providing training that equips them with the knowledge and skills they need to successfully work with athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Volunteer Qualifications
Anyone is welcome to volunteer for Special Olympics Georgia-Area 7. There are minimal requirements, including:
- Must be 16 years of age or older
Or
- Accompanied by an adult during volunteer service
There are various classes of volunteers. “Class A” volunteers—those who will be working directly with athletes—also require:
- A background check
- Mandatory Protective Behaviors training
First-time volunteers can download a Volunteer packet. Completed packets may be sent to our Volunteer & Event Manager.
Mandatory Volunteer Training
All coaches, unified partners and others who will be working closely with athletes must complete the Protective Behaviors Training. This training provides Class A volunteers with the information they need to prevent emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse of an individual with an intellectual disability.
This training requires reading a short booklet and completing a 10-question quiz. Volunteers must get all 10 questions correct to be certified.
Event-Specific Volunteer Orientation
Most events have a brief orientation before the start of the event. If you are on the roster to volunteer for the Area 7 spring, summer, fall or winter competition, you will receive information about orientation. If you are not sure if you are on our volunteer roster for a specific event, please contact us.