Dee Neukomm (left) is one of Special Olympics' most well-known volunteers. She is pictured here at a Special Olympics rhythmic gymnastics showcase.

By Tommy Osborne

Special Olympics Volunteers

“So much light:” Special Olympics volunteers say experience is incredibly rewarding

Apr 30, 2025 | 4:58 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – This week is National Volunteers Week, and one event that is seeking hundreds of volunteers is the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games. Running from July 10-12, this event will need 1000 volunteers. There is a long way to go, as it currently has around 160 members, but current volunteers say the experience is incredible.

“It’s just about feeling that we’re really supporting a group of individuals that are sometimes hidden in the community and really bringing them forward into the spotlight and showing off the dedication that they have,” said Donna Flood, the Director of Volunteers for the upcoming Games.

“It’s just a part of deepening my life and making a difference, making an impact. I think I’m going to be impacted much more than I can actually impact. Just being a part of the whole thing, I’m really looking forward to it,” said Cheryll Wagner, a new volunteer with Special Olympics.

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While Wagner is new to Special Olympics, she says the organization has already had a profound impact on her life, and encourages others to be a part of it.

“My sons both have special needs, and in the last year they got involved with Special Olympics. I think my biggest regret is not getting them involved sooner — they’re 25 and 22 now — I wish I had gotten them involved when they were ten because it’s made such an impact on their lives,” she said.

“This gives them an opportunity to have, and make, some long lasting and credible friendships. And it’s so fun to watch them play it, because it’s all ages,” she continued.

Beyond being incredibly rewarding and fulfilling, both Flood and Wagner add it is simply just a fun experience, as the athletes have a lot of energy and positivity which leads to a great atmosphere.

“They’re happy about their sports that they do. They’re happy about each other. They’re happy about having a sense of community, and they’re really excited about the fact that the community is jumping in to support them,” Flood said.

“They just have so much energy and so much light. I don’t know how else to explain it, but there’s just a light that happens when you are surrounded by persons with different abilities,” Wagner said.

If you’re unsure of what you would do, or how you could get involved, Flood ensures that there is a role and space for everyone.

“You will get way more out of volunteering than you give. Just being able to spend time with them … if you’re unsure what you want to do, certainly come and serve breakfast, lunch or dinner at the kitchen. That way you get to see all of the athletes as they come through and just share in all the excitement,” Flood said.

If you are interested in learning more or volunteering, you can visit Special Olympics BC’s website HERE.

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