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(Image Credit: Special Olympics Canada Summer Games Facebook)
Volunteers Needed

Volunteer rally planned at Co-op Place in Medicine Hat as Special Olympics recruitment continues

Jun 18, 2026 | 2:56 PM

Preparations are continuing for the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, with organizers calling on residents to volunteer as Medicine Hat gets set to welcome thousands of participants and visitors in August.

As part of the effort, organizers will host a volunteer rally at Co-op Place on June 20, where prospective volunteers can learn more about available opportunities and what to expect during the national event. It will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The Games, scheduled for Aug. 11 to 15, are expected to bring about 1,700 athletes, coaches, mission staff and officials from across Canada to Medicine Hat, along with more than 3,000 family members and friends.

Organizers said volunteers will play a critical role in the success of the event, which is being promoted under the slogan “We Shine Together.”

In a statement, the organizing committee said volunteers can register online, complete an attestation form, then browse available opportunities and select shifts that match the participants’ interests and schedules.

The committee also sought to address concerns about the volunteer process, saying volunteers are not assigned unexpected roles and have flexibility in choosing how they participate.

As part of Sport Canada requirements, all volunteers must complete Safe Sport training before taking part in the Games.

The national program is designed to help prevent abuse, harassment, bullying and physical or psychological harm in sport environments while promoting safe and inclusive experiences for athletes, coaches, officials and other volunteers.

Organizers said the training provides practical knowledge and skills that can benefit volunteers beyond the Games themselves.

Recognizing that some residents may be unfamiliar with online registration or training requirements, organizers said staff are available at the Games office during regular business hours to provide technical assistance and support throughout the process.

The organizing committee said volunteers, staff, athlete ambassadors and community supporters have spent years preparing for the event and helping bring the national competition to Medicine Hat.

Organizers say the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games will celebrate athletic achievement, determination and inclusion while giving Medicine Hat an opportunity to showcase its community spirit to visitors from across the country.

To register as a volunteer, visit the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games website.