Opportunities From: City of Thornton - Volunteer Programs

We are looking for help with the fun sport of Bocce Ball this summer! You will be assisting athletes with playing the game of bocce ball and preparing for Special Olympics competitions in late July and August. Practices are on Thursdays at Woodglen Pavilion and the competitions will be on Saturdays. You aren't required to do the competitions but we'd love to have you there. 

You might be assisting athletes with their throwing technique, helping keep score, and helping set up/take down the courts. Most importantly it's about getting to know the athletes and having fun together! 

A brief disability awareness training and background check for volunteers over 18 are required. 

An inclusion partner helps to include an athlete with diverse learning needs and abilities in general city recreation programs. They may assist with giving reminders, demonstrations, and encouragement while working with the  participant and others in the lesson. The inclusion partner also helps the participant to interact with their peers and is sure not to lead a separate lesson from the rest of the group. This is a great way to have fun with a sport or activity you enjoy while helping out and gaining meaningful volunteer experience. 

For summer 2026, we would appreciate help potentially in Track, Tennis and potentially Gymnastics Lessons. We work to make sure it's a good fit between participants, coaches and volunteers before moving forward. Contact becky.post@thorntonco.gov for more info. 

This opportunity is for volunteers interested in helping with one or more various Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) Programs. This may include assisting with Art Classes, Social Activities, Gymnastics, Dance, Boxing, Archery, or Sports. One hour per week for 5-10 weeks is the general commitment depending on the program. Volunteers assist with set-up/clean-up at the programs, encouraging participants, giving reminders of the instruction, demonstrating the skills, playing as a teammate or partner, at times pairing up 1:1 to assist with the skills. 

A brief disability awareness training for all volunteers and background check for volunteers over 18 are required. 

Introducing AIR Buds! Through this program, a participant with a disability is paired up with a volunteer based on age and common interests. A brief interview and background check (ages 18+) are required for volunteer buddies over 18. An orientation with the AIR Coordinator is required. After that, buddies are responsible for scheduling when and how they use the recreation center. Examples could be using the pool together, attend a Zumba class together, etc.