Become a Volunteer in San Mateo County
Make an impact that lasts beyond the game.
Athletes are why we exist – and our volunteers are how we exist. Special Olympics relies on the expertise and dedication of more than 23,000 volunteers throughout NorCal. They do it all – whether on the field coaching our athletes in 11 different sports, behind the scenes ensuring events run smoothly, raising funds or gathering support within our communities.
It takes thousands of volunteers to support Special Olympics NorCal and keep our programs free for athletes year after year. In San Mateo County, we have many volunteer opportunities available, and we’ve made it easy to find what you need. Choose your path below!
Experience the Impact our Volunteers & Coaches have on our Athletes!
Coaching with Special Olympics is more than teaching a sport — it’s empowering athletes, building friendships, and strengthening communities. Whether it’s basketball or bocce, you’ll help athletes shine while discovering your own leadership potential.
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Single-Day Volunteer Event Opportunities in Your Area
San Mateo Basketball Invitational
February 14, 2026
San Mateo Polar Plunge
February 28, 2026
Menlo Games Track & Field Invitational
May 2, 2026
Event Volunteers
Our most popular volunteer role! If you have limited time or are new to Special Olympics, this offers a fun way to volunteer at sporting events or fundraisers without making more than a one-day commitment.
Coaches
The backbone of Special Olympics, Coaches are responsible for providing athletes with sports training and preparation for competitions. This role is a hands-on commitment of a minimum of 6-8 weeks per sports season. If you love sports, are enthusiastic about helping athletes reach their potential, coaching could be for you!
Unified Partner
Special Olympics is all about inclusion – and that means bringing individuals with and without disabilities to together to compete as equals. Volunteers compete alongside Special Olympics athletes as teammates. Unified Sports opportunities are currently available for Tennis, Golf, Soccer and Flag Football.
Games Management Team
If you love sports but prefer to play a supporting role, there are a variety of volunteer opportunities for you! Join us as a part of the Games Management Team to set up the competition venues and provide logistics.
Medical Personnel
Volunteers with current EMT, paramedic, nurse or MD license clear of violations, suspensions or infractions. Certain events may require current BLS certification. Aquatics events require current lifeguard certification. Assignments are managed by event and/or medical director.
Health & Wellness
Special Olympics offers fitness programming as well as health screenings in 9 health disciplines. Volunteers with backgrounds in fitness, clinical care, and public health, as well as those without clinical or health experience, are needed for our Health and Wellness Programs.
Non Sports
Students, professionals and retirees can provide in-office support at one of four regional offices. Duties include office support (preparation of event/competition materials, data entry, pre-and post-event tasks), photography/videography and internship opportunities.
Group Volunteer Opportunities
Special Olympics NorCal offers many ways for groups to get involved! Gather your coworkers, friends, or community group and volunteer at an event. Group volunteering is a great team-builder—together you can make a real impact.