Volunteering strengthens individuals while fueling Olympic dreams.
“Faster, Higher, Stronger” has inspired generations of athletes since the birth of the modern Olympic Games in 1894. In 2021, the motto was updated to include “Together,” highlighting the Olympic Movement’s core values of unity and solidarity — a reminder that we achieve more when we work as one.
Sport has a unique power to unite people and communities, and when we combine that with a selfless commitment to something greater than ourselves, we not only grow personally but also help shape stronger communities. And in small but real ways, a better world, too.
Achieving Two Things at the Same Time
Many of us look for ways to grow while also making a difference. Volunteering for something we care about offers both — a chance to develop valuable skills and contribute to the greater good. While paid work is essential, volunteering brings its own rewards, from immediate personal growth to long-term benefits that can shape our future.
“It’s really interesting to think about,” Hanna Cromie says about her own job. Hanna is the Olympic Authority’s Workforce Coordinator, who connects directly with volunteers for all the sport events big and small. “I get to meet and work with a lot of different people, and the events themselves are so exciting. I feel like I’m part of a much broader community now just from being here.”
“Literally, none of what we have here in Lake Placid today would have ever existed without volunteers. They created our community, brought us worldwide attention, and made us who we are.”
She adds, “There are so many different facets to being a volunteer.” With all the different jobs, all the different events, and all the different benefits to joining the volunteer team, there are almost endless possibilities for everyone.”
Volunteers are so vital to Olympic Authority events that the team worked diligently this past year to streamline systems for them, making it easier to become a volunteer and to use one of the key benefits – the free lift ticket vouchers and attractions vouchers. That’s an especially important part of the reward program because every volunteer who contributes four or more hours in a day receives one of the vouchers.
“We made it all very user-friendly from the volunteer standpoint,” says Hanna. “It’s quick and easy to sign up, and the vouchers are simplified, too. I’m also here to make sure it’s easy and to help in any way our volunteers need.”
Personal Growth Meets Community Impact
In addition to the voucher program that offers access to venues and activities, volunteering’s impacts on one’s own life are immeasurable. Many scientific studies are available that demonstrate these wide-ranging effects:
Build Valuable Skills
- Communication, leadership, and problem-solving
- Learn from experts in real-world settings
- Explore new interests and uncover hidden passions
Boost Career & Academic Prospects
- Strengthen resumes and school/job applications
- Gain exposure to potential career paths
- Expand your professional network
Improve Well-Being
- Reduce stress, combat depression, and lift your mood
- Feel a sense of accomplishment and confidence
- Promote better overall mental and physical health
Connect & Contribute
- Experience diverse cultures and perspectives
- Foster understanding of athletes and sports
- Join a like-minded community and make new friends
- Strengthen your sense of responsibility and values
Whether one chooses to help with smaller local youth-oriented events or the big international competitions broadcast around the world, we are contributing to something bigger than ourselves. And in the process, we advance our own abilities and our own potential.
You Choose What’s Important to You
Through the Olympic Authority, volunteers can select sports, events, and roles that align with their interests and strengths. In doing so, they contribute meaningfully to the success of athletes, events, and communities while also gaining valuable experience and insight. By growing in skill and purpose, volunteers help drive broader positive change. That’s the spirit of Faster. Higher. Stronger. Together.
To see details on the lift ticket and activities vouchers and for other information about volunteering at Olympic Authority events, including the easy online sign up, visit orda.org/volunteer.