An Opportunity For Everyone
There are opportunities for everyone to be a part of Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT) and enjoy a meaningful and rewarding experience - as an athlete, Unified Sports® partner, coach, volunteer or as an employee. Special Olympics — in Connecticut and around the world — is about revealing the champion in all of us.
Become an Athlete
Our athletes are children and adults with intellectual disabilities who are finding success, joy, and friendship by competing in sports in schools and in communities across our state.
- Our athletes are given the opportunity to showcase their abilities through sports.
- They train and compete with other athletes of varying levels of skills and abilities, encouraging acceptance, teamwork, and inclusion.
- Through every competition and tournament, our athletes build confidence in themselves and their abilities.
Become an athlete and feel the power of inclusion through sports.
Become an Athlete's Partner
Unified Sports® partners are individuals who train and compete in sports alongside athletes with intellectual disabilities. The Unified Sports® program promotes social inclusion through sports, encouraging understanding and respect for individuals of all abilities in our schools and communities. Volunteer as a Unified Sports® partner to help our athletes realize their potential.
Become a Unified partner and empower the movement of inclusion through team practice and competition.
Become A Coach
Special Olympics coaches inspire and train our athletes to achieve their athletic and life goals. They come from all walks of life, including former and current athletes, high school and college students, professionals, family members, and members of the community.
You, too, can teach the skills and nurture the spirit that defines a true athlete by becoming a Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT) coach. Being a coach is typically an eight to 12-week commitment per sports season.
Become a coach and make a difference in a leadership position.
Become a Volunteer
Special Olympics is a grassroots movement that would not exist today if it were not for thousands of volunteers who support our mission. Over 10,000 volunteers dedicate their time annually to help children and adults with and without intellectual disabilities achieve their dreams here in our state.
We have two types of volunteer opportunities, with no experience required for either type:
- Ongoing Volunteers (Class A) - typically an 8-10 week commitment of 1-2 hours per week working directly with our athletes and Local Programs, serving in leadership positions, or handling money.
- Event Volunteers (Class B) - short time commitment assisting with activities taking place the day of a sport, health, or fundraising event.
Become a volunteer and make a direct impact on thousands of people across our state.
Become a Fundraiser
The success of Special Olympics Connecticut would not be possible without the generous support of individuals and groups that are part of our community. Becoming a fundraiser is a great way to get involved and to help spread the word about our programs and offerings.
Throughout the year, SOCT and our sponsors host a variety of events and fundraisers which help to raise money for our sports, health, and leadership programming. Annual events such as Penguin Plunge, Over the Edge, Golf Tournaments, and more provide an opportunity for individuals and groups to support our mission.
Become a fundraiser and help fuel our year-round activities.
Become A Sponsor or Donor
There are a number of ways to support SOCT, both as an individual and at the corporate level as a corporate sponsor.
Special Olympics Careers
Interested in working with us? View the current job openings and internship opportunities with SOCT.
