The World Comes to Boise
2008 Special Olympics Invitational Winter Games and the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games
By Natalie Bartley

  
Athletes from around the world are gearing up for the 2008 Special Olympics Invitational Winter Games and the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games.  Preparations to host the events are underway across the Treasure Valley and at Idaho's mountain resorts.

Families are an integral part of Special Olympics.  They coach the athletes, train volunteers, raise funds, and support the program in a myriad of ways.  Idahoans have a unique opportunity to show off the beauty of our state while contributing to a large international project at our doorstep.  We can share the thrills and challenges of the athletes as supporters.  Donations of goods, services, and funds are needed, as well as groves of volunteers and spectators.

From February 25-28, a dress rehearsal is being held in the form of the 2008 Special Olympics Invitational Winter Games.  An estimated 540 athletes from 11 countries will descend on Boise, followed by an estimated 3,000 athletes from 85 countries arriving for the 2009 World Games.  Competitions are being held in five winter sports at a variety of venues in 2008.  (See sidebar for details.)

Volunteers are essential for an amazing mixture of tasks.  During the 2008 Invitational Games, more than 3,000 “general” volunteers are needed, and for the 2009 World Games, 6,000 “general” volunteers are required. 

Dawn Thomas, director of volunteer services for the 2009 World Games, says “People can volunteer without any kind of experience and we will show them what to do.”  General positions do not require any specific training.  Duties range from selling merchandise to delivering meals, and from escorting athletes at competitions to helping the athletes’ families.  Language interpreters are in demand and event logistical support is needed.  Specialized volunteer roles such as timing races and judging require additional training, which is provided by the sports and venue managers.

Even as early as the 2006-2007 ski season, the Bogus Basin Ski Patrol was preparing for the 2008 and 2009 events by ramping up their patroller recruitment and training efforts.

Charles Butrick, volunteer past patrol leader and head of the Bogus Basin Ski Patrol’s Special Olympic committee, says the upcoming events are beneficial for highlighting the Boise area and Bogus Basin.  “We will really be able to show the national audience our community values that we share here in the Treasure Valley,” says Charlie.

He anticipates that 75 to 80 volunteer and paid ski patrollers will be active at Bogus Basin during the 2008 Invitational Games and double that number for the 2009 World Games.  Patrollers from Soldier Mountain, Brundage, and Anthony Lakes resorts will extend the patroller pool. 

For every athlete attending the 2008 and 2009 competitions, several other people accompany them, such as trainers, coaches, and family members.  “It’s a huge coordination effort, there is no way one group can do it alone,” says Charles. 

Scores of local volunteers are needed.  To participate in this monumental occasion, simply complete the online application form.  There is a section to indicate your job preferences, perhaps working with awards, family services, hospitality, or others categories.  You can indicate your areas of special expertise as well.  Volunteers for the 2008 Invitational Games need to be at least 14 years of age by February 20, 2008 and agree to a free fingerprint test. 

Volunteers receive materialistic and intrinsic rewards.  Each person is provided a 45-minute orientation training, and specialized training if needed, in advance of the 2008 Invitational.  They are awarded a ski jacket, a fleece vest, and a hat.  The minimum volunteer commitment in 2008 is two six-hour shifts. 

Better yet are the feel-good benefits. Dawn has personally experienced the joys of Special Olympics as a coach for Special Olympic athletes for 16 years, and with her son who has competed for 15 years. 

“Special Olympic athletes put you in a great mood.  You will feel inspired and have a lot of fun with the athletes.  They appreciate their volunteers.”

More than 200 Idaho Special Olympic athletes, both children and adults with intellectual disabilities, will participate in the 2008 Invitational Games.  “For 2008 I would love people to turn out, it’s a great opportunity to support the Idaho Special Olympic athletes.  It is their opportunity to shine and get a lot of attention and support,” says Dawn.

 
Natalie Bartley is a Boise-based writer.

Sidebar #1:

Viewing the 2008 Special Olympics Invitational Winter Games
Free admission to ceremonies and competitions!

Monday, February 25
Opening Ceremonies atTaco Bell Arena at Boise State University

Tuesday, February 26-28
Competitions in five disciplines held at various locations:
Alpine Skiing, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Nordic Skiing, Sun Valley
Snowshoeing, Sun Valley
Snowboarding, Tamarack Resort
Floor Hockey, Boise State University

Thursday, February 28
Closing Ceremonies at Boise State University
Be sure to check the website at 2009worldgames.org for any updates and changes regarding specific events, venues, and times.

Sidebar#2:

Volunteers needed for the 2008 Special Olympics Invitational Winter Games
Sign up by February 20, 2008 2009worldgames.org, or call the volunteer hotline at (208) 377-7199