Whether it's up front interacting with the athletes or working behind the scenes, volunteers are an integral part of the success of Special Olympics. The Barrie community is no different. Whether it be Head Coaches or the support volunteers that work closely with them, members of the council, helping out at our Bingo fundraiser, pitching in at events, driving athletes to where they need to go at any given time, volunteers are very much valued and appreciated for all that they do. We couldn't do it without you. The athletes gain skills, training, enjoyment from their sports, and self-confidence with your help.

If you are considering becoming a volunteer, contact the community co-ordinator, a head coach, a volunteer or through Special Olympics Ontario and we'll let you know what we need to get you started. Usually an application and a police check is all we will need.

Coaches

What are the duties of a coach?
Planning Practices
The coach works to plan each practice session before the players arrive so that the athletes learn a new skill or improve on what they already know. The coach has to make sure the athletes don't get frustrated. This takes practice, knowing what skills are needed, knowing how to teach those skills and knowing how to work with each athlete.
Conducting practices
This job requires that you be able to get and keep the players' attention and to set up the workout so that everyone is doing something most of the time. Knowing how to talk with the athletes is very important.

 Courses required
 Special Olympics Canada National Coaching Certification Program (SOC/NCCP) Community or Competition Coach Technical course within their first year of their assignment or placement.

Volunteers

Volunteers are an integral part of the success of Special Olympics, certified (coaching) or being part of the support staff. Special Olympics couldn't function as well as it does without your help.

What are the benefits for volunteers?
 You will contribute to the physical, social and emotional development of the athletes you work with
 Develop your coaching or administrative skills
 Become a certified coach through the National Coaching Certification Program

 What are the volunteer age requirements?
 Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, she/he has to have completed police reference check, and be registered with SOO as a volunteer.
Junior volunteers must be between ages 14 to 18 and they do not need to do a police reference check, must register with SOO as a volunteer, and will be supervised.

What certification is necessary?
 Volunteers do not need certification unless they want to coach athletes.



We always have room for energetic, compassionate people who want to have fun, help others, and make a difference.    

Become a Special Olympics volunteer by clicking the link below: