What is Special Olympics?
Special Olympics is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympics-type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities by giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
What sports are offered by Special Olympics Northern California?
We offer 6 sports: Aquatics, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Softball and Track & Field. Other sports may be offered as demonstration sports.
Does Special Olympics offer programs for athletes of all levels and abilities?
Special Olympics prides itself on providing programs for all skill levels. We create competition environments based on each athletes abilities by creating competition groups based on preliminary scores and times. This ensures a fun and fair competition.
What volunteer opportunities are available?
Special Olympics volunteers come from all walks of life, income levels, and age groups. Some bring specialized skills to work; while others sign on to learn new things. The important thing is that all of our athletes benefit by your gift of time. For more information about volunteer opportunities and categories, please click on Becoming a Volunteer.
How can my volunteering make a difference?
Volunteering for Special Olympics can be a life-changing experience, not just for the athletes, but for volunteers as well. Special Olympics promotes participation and inclusion and transforms the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. And when volunteers come together with our athletes through Special Olympics, longstanding myths are dispelled, negative attitudes changed, and new opportunities to embrace and celebrate people with a difference are created.
What is the minimum age for a registered volunteer?
Registered volunteers must be at least 14 years old. Volunteers between the ages of 14-17 can be coaching assistants as well as provide event, administrative and competition support under the supervision of an adult registered volunteer. Head coaches must be at least 18 years old.
What is the minimum age for day-of-event volunteers?
Day-of-even volunteers must be 10 years old. Volunteers 10-13 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible person who is also volunteering. All volunteers must have a waiver signed by their parent/guardian.
How can I find out about volunteer opportunities in my area?
Stanislaus Special Olympics has sports training, events, and competitions year-round. Please check our calendar for specific dates.
What is the volunteer registration process?
Volunteers who have regular, close physical contact with athletes, are in a position of authority, will have access to funds or personal information, must complete the volunteer registration process prior to volunteering and again every three years. The registration process includes submitting an application and copy of photo ID, passing a background check and completing two short training courses.
Do I need to register if I only want to volunteer at a competition or event?
In most cases, volunteers who work only at competitions or events are not required to complete the registration process. Exceptions are games/event management teams and overnight volunteers.
What is a Unified Partner?
A Unified Partner is a person without an intellectual disability who partners with a Special Olympics athlete to train and compete as a team. We currently are putting together a flag football team that will be a unified sport.