BYU NewsNet - Summer games more than service for volunteers

Reported by Callie Cockrell

Celebrating the dedication of athletes, the Special Olympics provide a great experience for participants and volunteers.

And with more than 1,400 athletes and participants, a large volunteer force is needed to help plan, organize and run the different activities.

Planning for the games began last fall with more than 50 committees of volunteers set up to do things from scheduling venues and contacting donors to presenting awards and working as security.

Jeff Selck, a BYU graduate from Taylorsville who studied physiology and developmental biology, has participated in the games since 2006 and was one of the program directors this year.

He said volunteers have always been an essential part of the Special Olympics.

“Our biggest goal was to get students actively involved in the planning and service experience in such a way that we could perform our duties so the people who we are really doing this for, the athletes, can have a wonderful experience,” Selck said. “We couldn’t put on the event without the vast numbers of volunteers.”

Past volunteers said the games were always a great experience and kept them coming back for more.

“I love the atmosphere, everyone is really excited,” said Stephanie Williamson, a graduate student from Salem, Va., studying sociology. “It’s just a really positive environment and it’s fun to celebrate the successes the athletes have no matter what level they’re at.”

BYU students are not the only ones benefitting from the event.

Members of the community are encouraged to participate in different ways, such as coaching or just showing up and cheering on the athletes.

Derek Price, father of nine-year-old Kyley Price, an athlete from Pleasant Grove, decided to get his whole family involved in order for his daughter to participate.

He said his idea to host a soccer team from his area provides an opportunity for his children to help train the players for the games.

The Special Olympics present a chance for students to clear up misconceptions of people with disabilities.

“It’s a really good opportunity for people to spend time with athletes and realize they are normal,” Williamson said. “They get competitive and excited about winning.”

The Special Olympics will conclude on Saturday evening with a closing ceremony. Volunteers are still welcome to participate. Anyone interested can visit the volunteer booth located on North Canyon Road, across the street from Dairy Queen.