Games Meet Volunteer Target
With 94 days until Games-time, the 2011 Games Host Society has reached its volunteer target. More than 5,000 people have registered to be Games volunteers.
The Host Society today, Nov. 9, announced that all necessary volunteers have been recruited and registered. Therefore the online volunteer registration system is closed.
"Nova Scotians of all ages, backgrounds and abilities have stepped up to the plate in greater numbers than ever before," said Jean-Paul Deveau, Games chair. "It is truly inspiring. On behalf of the Games, and on behalf of the athletes and visitors, who will be here in February, I say thank you.
"Together, we will make history in Halifax."
Reaching the target earlier than previous Games, allows the Host Society more time to get the 5,000 volunteers oriented, trained and accredited.
More than 1,000 volunteers are bilingual, and more than half have chosen to submit their names to Events Nova Scotia to be contacted for future volunteer opportunities.
Registered volunteers are encouraged to check the website, www.canadagames2011.ca/volunteer , on a regular basis. They can log in to their profiles to keep information up-to-date, as well as sign up to receive the Games volunteer e-newsletter.
The Games Volunteer Centre, at 7051 Bayers Rd., in front of the Bayers Road Shopping Centre, is officially open. Volunteers are encouraged to phone 902-490-2221 or drop in with questions. In January, volunteers will pick up their uniforms and accreditation badges at the volunteer centre, open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For those who missed the chance to volunteer, there are many other ways to "Get in the Games". Tickets and ticket packages can be purchased online, and people are encouraged to attend any or all of the free events at sport venues. Celebration Square at Grand Parade will host a free nightly concert, as well as daily presentations and performances by local community groups and artists. You can also interact with the Games online.