Students to volunteer at 2026 Special Olympics USA Games

Students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program and Bachelor of Science in Nursing program are preparing to help support the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which are being hosted in Minnesota June 20-26.

Students will be supporting health-related services through two key areas: the Healthy Athletes program and the Special Olympic Athlete Medicine program. In the Healthy Athletes program, students will conduct screenings and provide health-related education across multiple disciplines, including podiatric evaluations (Fit Feet), physical therapy assessments (Fun Fitness), mental health screenings (Strong Minds), vision testing (Opening Eyes), and physical health and habits screenings (health promotion). Additionally, through the Athlete Medicine program, students will assist in nurse-run dorm medicine clinics and a 24/7 urgent care center located at Pioneer Hall, providing first aid, wound care, screening for acute illnesses like flu or COVID-19, and care coordination for more advanced needs such as x-ray or orthopedic evaluations.

The student volunteers will serve alongside local nurses and health care providers to ensure the health of the competing athletes.

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will unite more than 3,000 athletes in 16 sporting events, 1,500 coaches, 10,000 volunteers, and 75,000 fans from all 50 states.