Special Olympics NC - Summer Games Volunteers Needed!

Do you want to be part of one of North Carolina’s most inspiring and exciting events? Special Olympics North Carolina is seeking enthusiastic volunteers for a wide variety of roles during the 2026 Special Olympics North Carolina Summer Games!

The Summer Games is the largest state-level competition hosted by SONC, bringing together athletes, coaches, families, and fans from across the state for an unforgettable weekend of sports, celebration, and community. The 2026 Summer Games will take place May 29 – 31, 2026 in Raleigh, Cary, and surrounding areas.

Volunteer Opportunities Include:

• Venue Welcome Teams
• Competition Assistants (Athletics, Swimming, Basketball, Volleyball, Bowling, Gymnastics, Powerlifting & more)
• Awards & Medal Presentation Teams
• Athlete Escorts & Staging Assistants
• Meals & Hospitality Teams
• Warehouse & Logistics Support
• Security & Safety Support
• Set-Up & Breakdown Crews
• Registration & Information Teams
• Healthy Athletes Support Volunteers
• General Event Operations
• Scorekeeping, Timing & Event Support
• Volunteer Check-In & Support Teams

Whether you enjoy working behind the scenes, supporting athletes directly, organizing logistics, welcoming guests, or helping competitions run smoothly, there is a role for everyone. Volunteers are the backbone of the Special Olympics movement and help make these Games possible every year.

Time Commitment:

• Flexible opportunities available before and during Summer Games weekend
• Some roles may include planning meetings or venue visits leading up to the event
• Event weekend: May 29 – May 31, 2026
• Volunteers must generally be age 14 or older for state-level events.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering at Summer Games is more than helping at an event — it’s about creating life-changing experiences for athletes across North Carolina. You’ll be part of an incredible team, build meaningful connections, and help create a welcoming, energetic, and unforgettable environment for everyone involved.

Whether you can help for a few hours or the entire weekend, your time and energy make a real difference.

Ready to join us?

Volunteer for the 2026 Special Olympics NC Summer Games