July 1, 2023 (Calgary, AB) – As the city prepares to host Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024, Calgarians are being called upon to continue in the city’s long-standing commitment to volunteerism. Calgary will host over 4,000 athletes, coaches, support staff, and their families and friends from across Canada. The Games will showcase athletes in eight different sporting disciplines — 5-pin bowling, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, floor hockey, snowshoeing, and speed skating.
The Special Olympics movement was founded on the principles of fair and equitable training and competition opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This sports-based movement aims to provide its participants with opportunities to increase fitness levels, develop sports-related skills and promote sportsmanship and fair play. You can join the movement by contributing to this world-class event and be part of a life-changing Games experience for individuals with an intellectual disability and for their families!
Volunteers have been the cornerstone of the Special Olympics movement since its inception in 1969. Special Olympics would not exist today — and could not have been created — without the time, energy, commitment, and enthusiasm of volunteers. Volunteerism, for some, may be a few hours and for others, a lifetime. The impact, however, is felt long after the Games are over — something the athletes are keenly aware of.
"IN NEARLY 30 YEARS THERE HASN'T BEEN ONE YEAR WHERE MY PASSION FOR THE ATHLETES AND THIS ORGANIZATION HAS WAVERED"
JODI FLANAGAN, CHEF DE MISSION FOR TEAM ALBERTA
Special Olympics athletes, Michaela Wasyliw and Will Shepherd, understand firsthand how intrinsic volunteers are to the Special Olympics movement. When asked why volunteers are important to the operation of the Special Olympics, Will stated that volunteers “are critical because, without them, the competition can’t run.” Michaela added, “Because they get to know the athletes, and they get to know who you are.”
The Volunteer Program is presented by TC Energy. François Poirier, President and CEO of TC Energy, and Games Co-chair, understands the critical role of the Games in our community. He shares, “I’m proud that TC Energy and our incredible employees are supporting the Games through sponsorship of the Volunteer Program. We are united in our belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate in sports. Together, we are committed to making these Games a memorable and impactful experience for all involved.”
If you enjoy being around exceptional people and want to contribute to a meaningful and thrilling event, then this fun and rewarding experience is for you! It is the ongoing commitment of volunteers that makes the Special Olympics movement possible.
Calgary 2024 — Help create a legacy of inclusive change through connection! Together. We can.
Interested in being a Volunteer? Follow the link to the Volunteer Program presented by TC Energy and fill in an application to get the process started. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter to stay in the loop!
