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Athlete Leadership allows athletes to explore opportunities in roles previously considered “non-traditional” – such as being an assistant coach, games volunteer, committee member, spokesperson or an advocate for Special Olympics.  Many athletes have never had the opportunity to express themselves and be heard: Athlete Leadership changes all of that!

Athletes want to give back, they want to help their local programs recruit more athletes and coaches, they help to raise money, and to raise awareness about the needs of their fellow athletes.

Just as our athletes need sports coaches to help them develop fitness and sports skills they also need mentors. These mentors and facilitators help develop athletes' leadership skills.  What they need most is you!
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Athlete leaders need volunteer mentors to help them reach their potential off the playing field, through Athlete Leadership.  We have athletes waiting to become Global Messengers and members of Athlete Input Councils. We have athletes who dream of being an assistant coach or an official.  But they need your help!  All you need is a little time and the desire to make a difference in the life of an athlete. We teach you the rest!
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How Can You Help?

• Become a speech coach: help an athlete be a Global Messenger.
• Become a leadership mentor: help athletes gain the skills and confidence needed to voice their opinions about Special Olympics and its future.
• Become an Athlete Input Council facilitator: help athletes improve their decision-making processes and learn to give and receive feedback from each another in a group setting, by facilitating Athlete Input Council Meetings.
• Mentor an athlete to become a Special Olympics Coach or Assistant Coach.

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What We Look For in a Mentor?

• ​The desire to help an athlete shine!
• Availability to give 15 hours a month (maximum) to work with an athlete
• Good organizational skills
• Good oral and written skills
• Good listening skills
• Ability to ask good questions
• Ability to process information quickly and explain to athletes in a way they can understand
• Someone who embraces the philosophy of Special Olympics
• Completion of a Class A Volunteer Form and ability to clear requisite background check
• Completion of General Orientation and Protective Behaviors training
• Willing to attend training applicable to the role you will be taking on

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Contact your local program if you are interested in becoming a Mentor.