Volunteers

Volunteers are the cornerstone of the development of Special Olympics Québec. They are a source of inspiration and allow the movement to exist. Throughout the year, between 1,000 and 1,500 volunteers volunteer their time and share their knowledge with the special athletes.

Whether it is to structure or administer a local committee, organize a sports competition, set up a fundraising activity, train athletes or time a race, everyone can become a volunteer and make a difference!

If you want to improve the quality of life of people living with an intellectual disability, you will find a place within Special Olympics Québec.

There are different types of volunteers at Special Olympics Québec:

• Logistics support
• Healthy community
• Fund raising
• Coaches and assistants
• Sports support

Logistics support: This is a role that can be administrative, in a local chapter, for example, or an organizational role (logistics, reservations, registrations). Minimal training is required.

Healthy Community: These volunteers are healthcare professionals or students from different healthcare fields. These people are members of their respective professional order or in the process of becoming one (students). Logistical support is often required at Healthy Athletes clinics.

Fundraising: This involves creating, organizing or coordinating fundraising activities. Logistical support may be required during events.

Coaches and Assistants: These volunteers plan, facilitate and coach athletic training and support athletes during regional, provincial, national or international training and competition. OSQ coaches, as for all sports federations, must follow different training courses since it is a question of interacting with the athletes*.

Sports support: The role of sports support is essential to our activities. It can transport athletes and equipment. He can act as an official, timekeeper or scorekeeper (during non-federated sports), he can serve meals or supervise during competitions. These people must undergo different training since it is a question of interacting with the athletes*.

*The necessary training is free and offered online.

Additional training is to be expected if you wish to progress and offer your time during provincial, national and world games.

Concerned about the safety of athletes who evolve within the organization, a criminal record check policy was adopted by the Board of Directors of Special Olympics Québec. This policy aims to ensure that everyone who works with athletes, whether volunteer or employee, agrees to a criminal background check.

In addition, the rule of two, which is to ensure that a coach, volunteer or employee is never alone with an athlete strengthens the safety net against any form of abuse (verbal, physical or psychological). Our goal is to provide a healthy living environment in which everyone can thrive in complete safety.

Special Olympics Québec asks volunteer coaches to take the “OS Competition – Introduction” training no later than two years after their first participation as a volunteer in the movement.

Athletes therefore benefit from the support of qualified volunteer coaches and chaperones.

Special Olympics Québec offers you a rewarding and safe environment where staff, volunteers and athletes are governed by a code of conduct and are protected by accident insurance.

Volunteers find a special place there to contribute to society, grow and create strong ties. This is an opportunity to meet other people who volunteer for a member of their family or to give a helping hand to people with intellectual disabilities in their community.

How do I apply?

Conditions

You can become a volunteer as early as the age of 16; a letter of consent from your parents is required.

You must complete the [SO Competition Training – Introduction] no later than two years after your first participation as a volunteer in the movement.

Steps to apply

Step 1

Fill out the Special Olympics Québec Volunteer Application Form. Depending on your skills, abilities, interests, and location, you will be directed to a local chapter contact person.