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Single-Day Event Volunteers

Support athletes through nonprofit volunteering

View Single-Day Events

 What Is a Single-Day Event Volunteer?

Single-day event volunteers help with one-time or short-shift roles at Special Olympics Northern California competitions, fundraisers, and events. If you’re looking for a nonprofit volunteer opportunity, single-day roles are perfect for making an impact without a long-term commitment. 

Ages 10+ are welcome. Volunteers under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian who is also volunteering.

Volunteer Roles May Include:

  • Scorekeeping
  • Timing
  • Awards Presentation
  • Event Set-up and Break-down
  • Registration

Join us for a day and help create an unforgettable experience for athletes!

Ready to Volunteer at an Event?

Follow these next steps:

  • Sign up online for your shift through our Volunteer Event Calendar.
  • Complete a simple event waiver.
  • Look for final instructions from our team.

No application, background check, or ongoing commitment required.

View Volunteer Event Calendar

Make It a Team Day – Group & Corporate Volunteering 

Looking for a meaningful way to bring your team, school, service club or organization together? Volunteering at a Special Olympics event is an easy, high-impact way to boost morale, strengthen teamwork, and make a real difference in your community, all in one unforgettable day. 

Group volunteers support our athletes by helping with roles like event set-up, registration, timing, scorekeeping, awards, or cheering on competitors. No special skills required, just a willingness to jump in, support one another, and have fun. Shifts are flexible, and our staff is with you every step of the way. 

Companies are often surprised by how much they get back. There’s nothing quite like watching Special Olympics athletes compete.

Whether you’re a small team or a large organization, we welcome groups of all sizes. If you’re exploring a new way to connect your employees with purpose, this is a great place to start. 

Contact Us to Get Started
Quotes

“The energy is contagious, the joy is real, and it’s one of the most rewarding volunteer experiences we’ve shared together.”

Molly

Corporate Volunteer

Accordion Background

FAQ’s

No. Event volunteers only need to register for individual events through our Volunteer Event Calendar and complete a simple waiver.

No, just enthusiasm and a willingness to help! Event volunteers may receive a brief orientation and role-specific training on site as needed. 

Volunteers ages 10+ are welcome and appreciated! Please note that volunteers under 14 must be accompanied by an adult who is also registered to volunteer. 

Event volunteer shifts vary by event. You can choose the events and times that fit your schedule. The average event shift is 4-6 hours.

Most volunteer opportunities become available 6-8 weeks before the event.  

Tasks include registration, setup, cleanup, and general support to help events run smoothly.

Yes, group volunteering is welcome. Corporate and community service groups may contact for more information about group volunteer opportunities. Private or non-affiliated groups are encouraged to explore the event volunteer calendar to find opportunities that best fit their interests and availability.

Absolutely! You can come as a Fan in the Stands and support our athletes. Part of what makes events special is support from community. We also suggest checking the calendar closer to the event as cancelations occur last minute. 

Fans in the Stands is a way for supporters to help create an encouraging, inclusive, and high-energy atmosphere at events by cheering on athletes and building a positive spectator experience. Athlete support and community energy play a powerful role in motivation, confidence, and the overall success of competitions.  

Fans in the Stands participants do not need to sign up for a specific volunteer role and are welcome to show up the day of the event. If you are interested in coordinating a Fans in the Stands volunteer group for a local event, please reach out to .  

Volunteers are expected to dress appropriately for the event and weather conditions. This includes dressing in layers, practicing sun safety (such as wearing hats or sunscreen), and wearing closed-toed shoes at all times. Dress code may differ depending on needs of the event. 

Apparel representing an organization is generally not permitted. Approval for organizational apparel is reserved for event sponsors and large community service groups working directly with Special Olympics Northern California (SONorCal). Organizations interested in group volunteer opportunities may contact for more information. 

Outside of becoming an ongoing volunteer, event volunteers who are interested in becoming more involved or pursuing a leadership role, such as serving on a Games Management Team (GMT), are encouraged to share their interest with the event leader or on-site staff contact. You may also contact  

Games Management Team (GMT) Members help organize and run events, supervise volunteers, and support competitions. GMT Members typically assist with 2–4 events per year. 

Absolutely! If you’d like to help in ways that aren’t tied to a specific event, there are opportunities such as organizing inventory, tidying storage areas, or assisting with other projects at a local office. These flexible roles let you make a difference on your schedule.  

Please note: availability may vary by location and time of year, and these opportunities are not guaranteed. To get involved, reach out to to share your interest, and we’ll help connect you with an office near you. 

Find Single-Day Events

Questions? Contact us at