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The Olympic Games have a place for you By
Jodi Petersen
According to the Olympic Creed, the most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win, but to take part. "Our state has a strong volunteer heritage that has endured -- like the Olympic Spirit -- for generations," Mitt Romney, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Organizing Committee said. Romney went on to say that the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will provide a chance for thousands of Utahns to participate through volunteering. "And it is only through volunteer support that we can succeed in 2002," he said. The Salt Lake Organizing Committee needs 26,000 volunteers, with different talents and skills, to successfully stage these historic Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Romney said he believes the diverse backgrounds and interests of the state's volunteers will be the difference in making these Games the greatest celebration that Utah -- and the world -- has ever seen. There are many ways for Utahns to get involved in the 2002 Olympics. The official Olympic Games Web Page lists many job and volunteer opportunities. According to the SLOC, some positions will require special skills in areas such as medicine, language, sport and technology. Other positions - like ushering, ticket-taking and greeting - will simply require hard work and exceptional customer service. Most volunteers will work during the Olympic or Paralympic Winter Games, although some will work prior to the Games to help prepare venues, check out uniforms, accredit staff or assist the athletes and officials as they arrive. Other volunteers will work after the Games to help disassemble the venues. An SLOC representative said volunteers will take home more than new skills and unforgettable memories. Participants will receive an Olympic or Paralympic uniform, a ticket to the dress rehearsal of the Opening Ceremony, food and beverages while working, free transportation to and from venues and Olympic memorabilia upon completion of their assignments. "Volunteering for the greatest sporting event in Utah's history will be an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience," Sandra Checketts said. Checketts completed an application process, an interview, and training to volunteer for the Olympic Games. She will participate as an usher at one of the venues. Many students are involved in internship opportunities. The host broadcaster for the Games, ISB , has hired several Utah State students to fill various broadcasting positions. Another opportunity to participate in the events was posted by the Deseret News . Staff writer Lisa Roche said Olympic organizers are looking for "every type of performer imaginable" including musicians, acrobats and comedians to entertain at each competition site as well as in downtown Salt Lake City's Olympic Square and in Park City. Applications will be accepted until June 4 and are available online at www.saltlake2002.com . If you want to be involved in the Games but do not have time to volunteer, you can donate $50 and have your name engraved on a sandstone brick , which will be set at the Olympic Legacy Plaza. Mitt Romney said he is amazed at the responses from Utah students to participate in the Olympic Games. "As Utah residents prepare to host the world in 2002, the students, filled with the spirit of Olympism, carry their excitement and enthusiasm to their parents, grandparents and neighbors." Winter of 2002 should be an exciting time for all those participating in the events. Romney encourages all not to miss out on this incredible opportunity.
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