Special Olympics Canada Summer Games needs 1500+ volunteers

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on January 28, 2026.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Medicine Hat is hosting the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, and the call is out for volunteers.

The Games are taking place Aug. 9-16, and with more than 1,500 athletes and trainers flocking to the Hat for the Games, organizers are looking for the support of more than 1,500 volunteers.

The online portal opened for volunteer applications this week. Applications can be submitted at socmedhat2026.ca/volunteers.

Volunteer positions range widely, from welcoming athletes and guests to managing logistics.

Volunteers will be needed during the pre-game window stretching from today until Aug. 9; the games-time window Aug. 9-15; and the post-game window Aug. 16-18. Shifts are flexible, and volunteer availability will be accommodated.

Hatters interested in volunteering must be over the age of 16 by June 2026, or else they must obtain written consent from a parent or guardian. For leadership roles, volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

All volunteers will be invited to the Volunteer Rally on June 20, a high-energy kickoff event from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Co-op Place. There will also be a Volunteer Appreciation event after the games wrap.

Volunteers with disabilities or accommodation needs are also welcome to participate, including those who have a full-time aid. Aids and support workers will also be required to go through the volunteer registration and screening process.

Every volunteer will be required to complete two training courses. Some roles also require a Police Information Check.

Volunteers will receive free access to City Transit during the Games, a meal voucher for any shift four hours or longer and an exclusive volunteer T-shirt.

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