Can family members coach?
Family members who are 16 years of age or older can volunteer as coaches . Special Olympics periodically provides coaches with the opportunity to attend certification trainings in different sports so that they can learn techniques and skills in order to work with Special Olympics athletes. Remember, you won't just be coaching your own athlete; you will be working with other athletes as well!

How much does it cost to watch my athlete compete at a local or State competition?
NOTHING! We welcome all spectators to Special Olympics events and there is never any charge to come and cheer for your athlete.

My athlete has a non-disabled sibling, can they participate?
Non-disabled siblings cannot participate as a Special Olympics athlete HOWEVER depending on their age and the sport they are interested in, they could participate in our Unified Sports Program and be a Unified Partner with their Special Olympics sibling. Unified sports brings disabled and non-disabled athletes together on the same playing field. Golf is a very popular unified sport.

How can I find out what competitions are coming up in my area?
Click here to locate your area and find out about events and competitions near you.

I don't have the time available at this time to coach. How else can I help?
There are many ways to help. How about volunteering your time at a local competition? If you have an hour or two to spare, there are any number of volunteer opportunities that are available. Volunteering at a local competition is a great way to involve the entire family. Another way to help is to support fundraising event . Special Olympics relies solely on the donations received from people, organizations and corporations in our community. We receive no federal or state funding of any kind so we appreciate any support you can give to our fundraising activities.

What about financial support?
Athletes are never charged to participate in any of our Special Olympics programs. That is why the financial support of the people and companies in our communities is so important. You can always make a donation directly to your local Special Olympics but there are other ways to help too! Planning a dinner out? Why not see if there is a Tip- a-Cop in your area? How about putting a team of walkers together and join us for Walk for the Gold® ?