Frequently Asked Questions

Volunteering

Can volunteers date Special Olympics athletes?

Special Olympics prohibits any Special Olympics volunteer (excluding spouses of athletes and athletes who are one-day volunteers) from dating or having a sexual relationship with any Special Olympics athlete. In the event that Special Olympics New Hampshire learns of any dating or sexual relationship, the organization immediately shall require either:

  • That the volunteer end his or her association with Special Olympics; OR
  • That the association between the volunteer and Special Olympics be terminated.

In the case of a Special Olympics athlete who is also a volunteer, Mary Conroy, President will evaluate the circumstances on a case-by-case basis and determine if an authority relationship exists between the volunteer athlete and the competing athlete. If it is determined that there is such a relationship, then apply the above policy in the same manner as the policy is applied to non-athlete volunteers.

Special Olympics respects the right of athletes to have the full range of human relationships available to other human beings. This policy shall not be interpreted as a limitation on the rights of athletes, but only as a restriction on Special Olympics volunteers.

If you hear about, suspect or have knowledge of a breach to this policy, it must be reported immediately to Mary Conroy, President at (603) 770-4055.

*The terms “Special Olympics athlete” and “athlete” refer to persons with intellectual disabilities. The term “volunteer” includes Unified Partners.

What is the volunteer code of conduct?

All Special Olympics New Hampshire volunteers must abide by the following Code of Conduct. If a volunteer violates this Code of Conduct, he/she will be subject to a range of consequences, up to and including being prohibited from volunteering with Special Olympics.

  • Behave in a manner consistent with Special Olympics core values of mutual respect, integrity, positive attitude, accountability, teamwork and dedication.
  • Provide for the general welfare, health and safety of all Special Olympics New Hampshire athletes and volunteers.
  • Dress and act in an appropriate manner at all times.
  • Follow the established rules and guidelines of Special Olympics New Hampshire, Inc., Special Olympics, Inc. and/or any agency involved with Special Olympics New Hampshire.
  • Report any emergencies to the appropriate authorities after first taking immediate action to ensure the health and safety of the participants.
  • While in the proximity of athletes involved with any Special Olympics New Hampshire event, competition or training school, abstain from the consumption or use of all alcohol, tobacco products and illegal substances.
  • Do not engage in any inappropriate contact or relationship with athletes, volunteers or other participants of Special Olympics New Hampshire.
Who can volunteer?

Individuals, groups, families… anyone can volunteer! Volunteers ages 14 and younger are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or adult volunteer.

How to be a Volunteer

What does a volunteer do?

You name it, they do it! Special Olympics New Hampshire is a volunteer-driven organization, which means tVolunteers are the backbone of Special Olympics New Hampshire. They are coaches, trainers, officials, event organizers, fundraisers and managers. They can also be unified partners—playing alongside athletes with intellectual disabilities—or fans cheering in the stands. 

Learn more about what opportunities exist and to get started volunteering with SONH here or reach out to us at specialolympics@sonh.org  or at 603-624-1250.

How do I volunteer with Special Olympics New Hampshire?

Volunteers are the backbone of Special Olympics New Hampshire. They are coaches, trainers, officials, event organizers, fundraisers and managers. They can also be unified partners—playing alongside athletes with intellectual disabilities—or fans cheering in the stands. 

To learn more about what opportunities exist and to get started volunteering with SONH, please reach out to us at info@sonh.org or at 603-624-1250.