Olympic volunteers

It is often said that it is the volunteers who “make the Games”. Early on, the organising committees of the Olympic Games launch programmes allowing tens of thousands of people from all backgrounds to ensure the smooth running of the Games.

Each organising committee generally launches its volunteer programme around two years before the event.

What does the work involve?

Volunteers are critical to the success of the Games, and they help to create positive impacts and memories for all participants and spectators.

There are a wide variety of roles for volunteers at any experience level. These may take many forms and in many languages, with athletes and teams, with spectators, and during the competitions themselves. Roles may include customer service, press and communications, health services, technology, protocol and languages, transport, opening and closing ceremonies, operational support for the organising committee, sports events, etc. 

As London 2012 Organising Committee Chairman Lord Sebastian Coe put it, volunteers “are the lifeblood of the Olympic Games.”

What are the benefits of Olympic volunteering?

Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways for members of the host communities to engage in the Games.

In return, volunteers obtain benefits that can last a lifetime. They make professional contacts and new friends, are given exclusive training, and receive a uniform and a participation certificate. It is a fantastic opportunity for their own personal development and to be involved in a once-in-a-lifetime global celebration.

Though the vast majority of volunteers come from the host territory/territories, there is also the opportunity for international volunteers to participate. Whoever has been to the Games, whether as an athlete, official, media representative or spectator, never forgets the smiles and dedication of the volunteers.