We cannot imagine a single Olympic or Paralympic Games without the teamwork put in by our tens of thousands of volunteers. It is the volunteers who create the unique atmosphere of hospitality and warmth that is at the heart and soul of any Games. Sochi 2014 will be no exception. There will be 25,000 volunteers from Sochi, other Russian cities and other countries who will take part in organizing and hosting the Games. The Sochi Games volunteers will be made up of people of different ages and a broad range of work experience. Every volunteer will become a part of our country’s history and a part of the worldwide Olympic and Paralympic movement.
The Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee offers excellent opportunities to those who would like to become a Games volunteer. Russian university students are already actively volunteering in subdivisions of the Moscow and Sochi offices to gain experience and prepare for future activities.
The Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee has initiated a training system for prospective volunteers, allowing them to work with other Organizing Committees to learn more about how various functions operate during the Games. Training programs are already in session and trainees are involved in organizing major events in Russia and abroad. These projects are organized closely with the Russian Federation’s Ministry of Sport, Tourism and Youth Policy.
One of the most important step for Russian volunteers was their role as the Russian Volunteer Team for organizing the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Games. They'd return with unique insights that they can pass on to other prospective volunteers for the 2014 Winter Games. The next unique project for Russia's best volunteers is participation in preparations for London 2012.
Official volunteer selection for the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Sochi will start at the beginning of 2012 - two years before the Games. The Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee is already receiving dozens of letters a day from people across the world who dream of becoming a part of this grand event. They all ask the same question: "How do I become a volunteer for the Sochi 2014 Games?” We promise that anyone, regardless of their profession or nationality will have the opportunity to participate in the selection process. Key requirements for candidates are a sympathetic nature, kindness, generosity, and the willingness to help, cooperate, learn and work.
See you in Sochi!