Thursday, 23rd April 2009

SPECIAL OLYMPICS LEICESTER SMASHES TARGET FOR VOLUNTEERS

Special Olympics Leicester Games Organising Committee today announced that 2,000 volunteers have signed up to the National Summer Games in Leicester this July.  This exceeds the target of 1,500 volunteers original marked for a successful Games and demonstrates the enthusiasm and commitment from the people of Leicestershire and across the UK to stage a World Class event.

England and Portsmouth Football Club goalkeeper, David James was the 2000th person to register an interest in volunteering, and will be on-hand at the football event to offer advise and support the teams: “Football is such a passion across the UK and is enjoyed by all abilities. The level of skill, fitness and commitment shown by all athletes has inspired me to get involved and I look forward to offering my assistance in July!”

Volunteers are fundamental to the success of the Games, as support is needed for virtually every aspect of running the event. Volunteering roles range from supporting visiting teams and their families, assisting at sporting events, to helping with transport and making the sandwiches. Over the coming weeks, Special Olympics Leicester volunteering team will begin the work of matching potential volunteers to specific roles and the training will then follow in June.  To sign up as a volunteer for Special Olympics GB National Summer Games visit www.sol2009.com.

AD Durin, Volunteering Director for Special Olympics Leicester, said: "In January 2009 we celebrated the 1,000th volunteer land mark and to double the interest so quickly is quite amazing. Volunteers have come from the four corners of the UK all offering different skills and expertise, plus lots of enthusiasm.

“The support from the people of Leicester is fundamental as it is their city and they are the ones that will make it a success for the athletes and the supporters. I really can’t wait until 25th July!"

 Volunteers are the public face of the Games and well-briefed volunteers with a positive and friendly attitude will play a significant role in making the Games a success.  Previous events have shown that if the volunteers have enjoyed the experience, many will want to continue their involvement in Special Olympics following the event itself.  The Games can therefore leave a legacy that will be of benefit to the city of Leicester’s Special Olympics programme.