Athlete Leadership Program

Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs) are an opportunity to involve Special Olympics athletes in a non-traditional component of Special Olympics.

• Allow athletes to choose for themselves how and in what role they participate in Special Olympics
• Support athletes in meaningful positions of influence and leadership throughout the organization to help determine policy and set direction
• Provide training for existing leadership as they welcome athletes in their new roles

SONH currently provides four programs as part of our ALPs Program.

The Global Messenger program focuses on public speaking, writing and developing a speech, the different ways to present a speech, and how to prepare properly for a presentation. SONH Global Messengers have spoken to corporations and businesses, at State and Regional Competitions, the SONH Awards Gala and to service clubs around the state. Topics include seeking volunteers or assistance for their Local Program, giving thanks to clubs or individuals for their support, congratulating volunteers, athletes, coaches, etc. on their achievements in Special Olympics.

Each Global Messenger must have a mentor who is certified as a Local Program Volunteer. The role of the speach coach is to assist the athlete in arranging for speaking engagements, to help write speeches and to help with transportation. SONH will often request Global Messengers for particular events but it is expected that the athlete and speach coach will seek opportunities to make presentations about Special Olympics and to spread the word about their organization.

Training is open to all interested athletes. Athletes must have the approval of their Local Program Coordinator.

All currently trained Advanced Level Global Messengers will be eligible to apply for these positions. State Global Messengers will also be asked to speak at a number of other events that the SONH state office is involved in..