VOLUNTEERS
Where do you fit?
Coaches
Lead. Teach. Inspire.
Coaches are the backbone of Special Olympics Delaware. They teach sport-specific skills, help athletes build confidence, prepare teams for competition, and create a fun, safe, and inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.
No experience necessary! We provide all coach certifications at no cost.
Time Commitment
- 1–2 hours per week for approximately 8 weeks
- Attend at least 80% of team practices
- Participate in two competitions:
- Mid-Season Qualifier
- State Tournament
Age Requirement
- 15+
Additional Requirements
- Class A Volunteer Certification
- Complete Protective Behaviors certification
- Complete Heads Up Concussion certification
- Criminal Background Check (required for volunteers 18+)
Interested? Click here to fill out an application.
Team Volunteers
Support the Coach. Support the Team.
Team Assistants work alongside coaches during practices and competitions. They help organize equipment, assist athletes during drills, encourage participation, and ensure practices run smoothly. This is a great role for individuals who want to be involved without leading practices.
Time Commitment
- 1–2 hours per week for approximately 8 weeks
- Attend practices and competitions as available
Age Requirement
- 15+
Additional Requirements
- Class A Volunteer Certification
- Complete Protective Behaviors certification
- Complete Heads Up Concussion certification
- Criminal Background Check (required for volunteers 18+)
Interested? Click here to fill out an application.
Unified partners
Compete Together. Grow Together.
Unified Partners are individuals without intellectual disabilities who train and compete alongside Special Olympics athletes as teammates. Unified Sports promote inclusion, teamwork, and lasting friendships both on and off the field of play.
Time Commitment
- 1–2 hours per week for approximately 8 weeks
- Attend practices and competitions
Age Requirement
- Varies by sport (generally 8+)
Additional Requirements
- Volunteers 18 years and older must complete Class A Volunteer Certification.
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- Complete Protective Behaviors certification
- Complete Heads Up Concussion certification
- Criminal Background Check (required for volunteers 18+)
- Unified Partners ages 8–17 must complete a Unified Partner Application. Click here to download the application.
- Completed Unified Partner Applications should be emailed to Info@SODE.org
Interested? Click here to fill out an application.
Practice Volunteer
Make Every Practice Better.
Practice Volunteers assist during weekly team practices by helping with drills, setting up equipment, encouraging athletes, and supporting coaches as needed. This flexible role is perfect for volunteers who want to make a difference without committing to a full coaching position.
Time Commitment
- Volunteer when your schedule allows
- Most practices last 1–2 hours
Age Requirement
- 15+
Additional Requirements
- Volunteer Account Completed CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE ONE
Official
Keep Competition Fair and Fun.
Officials ensure competitions are conducted safely and according to Special Olympics and sport-specific rules. Whether you’re an experienced official or looking to get involved, officials play an essential role in providing quality competition for our athletes.
Interested? Email Kyle Coburn at kyle.coburn@sode.org
Medical Volunteers
Help Keep Our Athletes Safe.
Medical Volunteers provide first aid and medical support during Special Olympics competitions and events. We welcome licensed healthcare professionals and qualified medical personnel who are passionate about serving our athletes.
Time Commitment
- Flexible—choose the events and shifts that fit your schedule
Age Requirement
- 18+
Additional Requirements
- Appropriate medical license or certification
- Volunteer Account Completed CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE ONE
Photographers
Capture Moments That Matter.
Photographers help tell the story of Special Olympics Delaware by capturing athletes, volunteers, and fans in action. Your photos help celebrate achievements, recruit new volunteers, and share the impact of our mission throughout the community.
Time Commitment
- Flexible—choose the events and shifts that fit your schedule
Age Requirement
- 16+
Additional Requirements
- Camera equipment preferred but not required for all events
- Must follow Special Olympics photo and media guidelines
- Volunteer Account Completed CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE ONE
Event Volunteer
Make Our Events Possible.
Event Volunteers support competitions and fundraising events by assisting with registration, awards, hospitality, scorekeeping, setup, cleanup, athlete escorts, and many other important tasks. Whether you volunteer for a few hours or an entire day, you’ll play a vital role in creating an unforgettable experience for our athletes.
Time Commitment
- Flexible—choose the events and shifts that fit your schedule
Age Requirement
- 12+ (Volunteers ages 12–13 must be accompanied by an adult.)
Additional Requirements
- Volunteer Account Completed CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE ONE
For volunteer questions please contact Kyle Coburn at kyle.coburn@sode.org or 302-831-0198
“Volunteers don’t just make a difference. They are the difference.”
Volunteers are the backbone of the Special Olympics movement. Your dedication and support make our mission possible.
CONNECT WITH US!
Special Olympics Delaware
619 South College Ave.
Newark, Delaware 19716