[TCARC-NTX] Fwd: Special Olympics Volunteer Information

[Gerald Buxton]

This was distributed to all volunteers at work.  Special Olympics volunteers
please read it and note the last sentence!

Jerry

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Volunteers are the lifeline of the Special Olympics program. More than 1.5
million individuals  worldwide, dedicate their time, one of the most  precious
gifts of all, to Special Olympics. These  volunteers serve as coaches,
officials, committee members, competition assistants and much more.  Whether
they participate for one day or for several years, volunteers make a
difference in the lives of athletes and in their communities. When you leave a
Special Olympics event you will have touched the heart of another person and
will be moved in a meaningful way that lifts the spirit and touches the heart.
 

Special Olympics Volunteer Oath 

I promise to give of the time in my life 

so that Special Olympics athletes 

can have the time of their lives. 

I promise to support Special Olympics 

not just as an expression of charity, 

but as a form of respect for my fellow human beings. 

I promise to spread the word of volunteerism because, 

in giving, I receive so much more in return. 



The Fort Worth Campus Diversity Council would like to thank all of our
volunteers for participating in this, our third annual, Special Olympics
cycling event.  We would like to offer the following volunteer tips, as
suggested by Special Olympics Texas:  

Special Olympics athletes have some form of mental retardation or
developmental disability characterized by slowness in learning and adaptation.
If you are unsure how to respond to an athlete, treat him/her as you would
wish someone to treat you - with patience and understanding. Deal with the
athletes as individuals; each person is unique. In addition to name tags on
their backs, athletes will be wearing wristbands with their name, team and
gender printed on them. Make every effort to use the athletes' names when
speaking with them.  

Smiles, applause and enthusiasm are always appreciated. Use your normal voice
when giving support to the athletes. As far as physical recognition is
concerned, let the athletes take the lead as to what they would like. Some
athletes are instructed by their coaches and parents not to hug strangers,
although other athletes appreciate hugs as a form of support. Often a
high-five or pat on the back may be more age appropriate for an individual.  

Enjoy your interactions with the athletes, but don't be afraid to ask coaches,
more experienced volunteers or staff members for help when you are
uncomfortable handling a situation. If you see any sort of problem, just
remember that the athlete-to-coach ratio is 4:1- in other words, coaches are
plentiful and willing to help. Appropriate athlete behavior is emphasized in
Special Olympics training. Expect the athletes to behave properly throughout
the event. Sportsmanship is also emphasized. Medals are not given to everyone,
and athletes are encouraged to accept and learn from defeat as part of
competition.  All volunteers are welcome. If all athlete-assistance positions
have been filled by the time you arrive, you will be assigned as
spectators/cheerleaders. The important thing is to be enthusiastic, have fun
and cheer on the athletes. We ask that you do not bring small children to the
competitions unless you have someone to care for them, since the athletes will
require most of your attention. 

A medical staff will be on hand for the games. When you arrive at your venue,
make note of where the medical volunteers are located or how they can be
reached. Do not attempt to treat or move a sick or injured athlete. Contact
the nearest medical personnel immediately.  Note:  Emergency Medical
Technician will be located at the Employee Center and will be in direct
contact with Jerry Buxton and the other HAM radio operators, who will be
wearing lime green volunteer T-shirts. 

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