Volunteer Help Create and Launch an Inclusive Sports Camp in Wales

What will you be doing?

Special Olympics Wales is seeking a passionate and proactive volunteer to support the development and launch of the first Camp Shriver in Wales – starting in Swansea. This is an exciting opportunity to help create a transformative sports and friendship experience for young people with and without intellectual disabilities. Camp Shriver is a unique, inclusive day camp that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds to participate in fun, structured sports activities, team-building games, and leadership development. Rooted in the Special Olympics Unified Sports® model, it focuses on breaking down barriers and building positive relationships through the power of sport. As a volunteer, you will play a key role in helping us get this brand-new project off the ground, working alongside Special Olympics Wales and local partners to plan, promote, and prepare for the first Camp Shriver in the country. Key areas you may be involved in:

Assisting with project planning, timelines, and setting objectives Helping develop a camp structure and daily schedule using the Camp Shriver Toolkit Supporting outreach to local schools, sports clubs, councils, and community groups Identifying potential venues, sponsors, equipment needs, and delivery partners Assisting in the recruitment and coordination of volunteers and coaches Helping build marketing materials, social media content, and event communications Supporting the creation of an inclusive and positive camp culture

This role is ideal for someone with an interest in youth development, sport for social good, inclusive education, or community-building. Experience in project management, community engagement or events is essential and what matters most is your enthusiasm, commitment, and belief in inclusion. You will gain:

A chance to be part of something meaningful and impactful in Wales Valuable experience in inclusive programme design and grassroots development The opportunity to work alongside passionate people in the Special Olympics community A strong sense of purpose – helping young people discover their abilities through sport

Whether you're a student, professional, retiree or just looking to give back to your community – if you believe in equality, inclusion and the power of sport to change lives, we’d love to hear from you.

What are we looking for?

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about inclusion, community development and creating positive opportunities for young people. You don’t need to have a background in sport or Special Olympics – just a willingness to get involved, learn, and make a difference. Desirable skills and qualities:

Good organisational and planning abilities Confident communicator, able to connect with a range of people and partners A collaborative team player who is also comfortable working independently Creative thinking and a can-do attitude Comfortable using basic digital tools (email, documents, online forms etc.)

Experience in any of the following areas:

Community engagement or outreach Youth work or inclusion projects Event planning or project management Working or volunteering with people with intellectual disabilities Marketing, social media or content creation

Most importantly, we’re looking for someone who believes in equality, is enthusiastic about helping young people succeed, and wants to be part of something special in Wales. Training, support, and resources – including the official Camp Shriver toolkit – will be provided. You’ll be warmly welcomed into the Special Olympics Wales family.

What difference will you make?

By volunteering to support the launch of Camp Shriver in Wales, you’ll help create a truly inclusive space where young people with and without intellectual disabilities can come together, build friendships, and grow through sport. Your contribution will help remove barriers, promote acceptance, and foster a sense of belonging for young people who are often excluded from mainstream opportunities. Camp Shriver is more than just a summer camp – it's a movement for inclusion, empowerment and understanding. Your work will have a direct impact on:

Creating a welcoming, joyful experience that celebrates every young person’s abilities Providing opportunities for young people to develop confidence, leadership and social skills Supporting the wider Special Olympics mission to build inclusive communities through sport Laying the foundation for a sustainable, community-driven programme that can grow across Wales

You’ll help inspire youth, connect communities, and offer families hope – showing what’s possible when we come together with compassion and vision. Long after the camp ends, your impact will live on in the friendships formed, the confidence gained, and the attitudes changed. This is your chance to be part of something transformative – a legacy of inclusion, positivity, and pride for Wales.