Special Olympics needs 1,400 volunteers for Oct. 20 event
A: Main, Events, Madison County Record, News, The Madison Recor, Z - News Main
By ERIN COGGINS news@themadisonrecord.com
 By ERIN COGGINS news@themadisonrecord.com  
Published 6:04 am Wednesday, October 14, 2026

Special Olympics needs 1,400 volunteers for Oct. 20 event

HUNTSVILLE — Special Olympics Madison County is calling on the community to help make a difference in the lives of local athletes by volunteering at its upcoming track and field event on Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Milton Frank Stadium in Huntsville.

With approximately 1,400 volunteers needed, organizers are encouraging individuals, businesses, civic organizations, school groups and community members to step forward and help create a memorable experience for participating athletes.

The greatest need is for 1,200 athlete escorts, who will accompany Special Olympics athletes throughout the event, helping them navigate activities, reach their competitions and enjoy a day filled with encouragement and celebration.

An additional 200 volunteers are needed to assist with a variety of event responsibilities, helping ensure the day runs smoothly for athletes, families and spectators.

“Special Olympics is about so much more than athletic competition. It’s about building confidence, celebrating abilities and creating a community where everyone belongs,” media relations volunteer Erin Coggins said. “Our volunteers are essential to making this day possible. Whether you’re escorting an athlete or helping behind the scenes, you have an opportunity to make a lasting impact.”

The annual event brings together athletes, families, volunteers and supporters for a day that celebrates determination, sportsmanship and inclusion. Volunteers play a vital role in creating a positive and welcoming environment where every athlete has the opportunity to shine.

Community members do not need previous Special Olympics experience to volunteer. A willingness to help, offer encouragement and celebrate the accomplishments of local athletes is what matters most.

Those interested in volunteering can sign up through the Special Olympics Madison County Facebook page. The deadline to sign-up to be a volunteer is Friday, Oct. 17.

About Special Olympics Madison County

Special Olympics Madison County provides opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate in athletic competition while promoting inclusion, confidence, friendship and community engagement. Through the support of volunteers, families and community partners, Special Olympics celebrates the abilities and achievements of every athlete.

Also on The Madison Record
Madison Witches Ride takes off this Sunday in downtown Madison
A: Main, Events, Madison County Record, ...
By STAFF REPORTS 
October 14, 2026
MADISON - The Madison Witches Ride is back for its fifth year this weekend. On Sunday, Oct. 18 from 3 to 5 p.m. In a fun ride, roll and stroll through...
Fees for access, rentals from Parks and Recreation Department increase
Madison County Record, News, The Madison Recor, ...
Gregg Parker 
October 14, 2026
MADISON – Madison residents will notice that they’re paying a bit more for reserving a meeting room, joining a sports team or accessing a sports court...
Library to host Sharon Cameron, ‘New York Times’ Bestselling Author
Events, Madison County Record, News, ...
Gregg Parker 
October 14, 2026
MADISON – Madison Public Library, 142 Plaza Blvd. has scheduled ‘An Evening With Sharon Cameron,’ who hails as a “New York Times” Bestselling Author. ...
Not for the weak of heart: Jets best Sparkman in nail-biting matchup to take 6A Region 4 lead
A: Main, Madison County Record, News, ...
Jets best rival Sparkman in nail-biting matchup to take 6A Region 4 lead
Bob Labbe 
October 13, 2026
HARVEST - “This was the first game for me where I thought I was having a heart attack. I felt as though my heart almost stopped.” That’s how Sparkman ...
Commission approves more than 37,000 square feet of commercial projects in downtown area
A: Main, Business, Madison County Record, ...
Staff Reports 
October 7, 2026
Downtown MADISON – The Madison Historic Preservation Commission recently voted to approve Certificates of Appropriateness for three commercial project...
Mill Creek Preserve officially opens in Madison
A: Main, Madison County Record, News, ...
Bob Labbe 
October 7, 2026
MADISON - The efforts that began 20 years ago have paid dividends as the Mill Creek Nature Preserve was officially opened Oct. 2 with a ceremony held ...
Madison Witches Ride calls for residents to serve as volunteers
Events, Madison County Record, News, ...
Gregg Parker 
October 7, 2026
MADISON – Both the haggardly and the charming entrants for Madison Witches Ride are counting on their mortal counterparts to endorse the event with a ...
Local history resource spotlight: UAH archives
News
EXPLORING LOCAL HISTORY WITH MARIA
Maria Rakoczy 
October 7, 2026
MADISON - Gold mines of local history are sitting right in front of us. Thanks to local history pioneers such as Frances Cabaniss Roberts, John Rankin...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *