By Shauna Stuart | sstuart@al.com
The upcoming World Games is seeking 3,300 volunteers to help with operations as the multi-sport event comes to Birmingham this summer.
In July, Birmingham will host 3,600 international athletes from more than 100 countries for The World Games 2022, the competition held every four years with support from the International Olympic Committee.
This summer’s World Games will be the first time a U.S. city has hosted the competition since 1981, when Santa Clara, Cali. hosted the first edition of the Games.
In a press release, the Birmingham Organizing Committee for The World Games 2022 said it expects more than 500,000 spectators to visit the city during the competition from July 7-17, 2022.
More than 3,000 volunteers will be needed to make The World Games 2022 a success, according to organizers.
“This event will take a small army of people to unite and serve a common purpose,” said Kathy Boswell, Executive Vice President of Community and Volunteer Engagement for The World Games 2022 in the same press release.
“The customer service details are almost endless, and our goal is to provide an outstanding experience and memorable moments for our guests and athletes. This experience is our opportunity to celebrate the athletes’ achievements and show the world the new Birmingham. As we come together and get to know one another as citizens and neighbors, the legacy of unity will carry the city forward.”
All volunteers must serve a minimum of 20 hours. Volunteer registration is open, and volunteers can register as individuals or in groups. Each volunteer will receive complimentary tickets to selected events, uniforms, shift meals, and an appreciation party at the Closing Ceremony.
Applicants must pass a background check and complete the interview process in January. Once selected, volunteers will begin a series of training workshops, including Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Culture and Etiquette, Disability and Inclusion, Human Trafficking, and Safety Protocols.
