The motivating force and soul of the Games is above all the Olympic Volunteers. These are the people who help the athletes, the visitors, and the spectators at the most amazing sport event in the world. The success of the Olympic Games was due to all 34,548 volunteers at Barcelona, all 60,422 volunteers at Atlanta, and all 47,000 volunteers at Sydney.

The Olympic Games is returning to Greece, to the country where it was born and to Athens, the city where it was first revived. Everyone will have the unique opportunity to experience the magic of the Games at first hand. Participation in the organisation of the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games means participation in the largest celebration of humankind. Participation is based on will, passion, dedication and professionalism, qualities shown by every volunteer.

The periods for which volunteers will serve are:

The Sport Events organised to test preparations at all levels: 2003-2004.
Preparations for the Olympic and Paralympic Games: May-August 2004.
The Olympic Games: 13-29 August 2004.
The Paralympic Games: 17-28 September 2004.

What length of time volunteers will be recruited for depends on which section they have offered their services to. The average time is 7-10 days for the period they have stated their interest in.

The stages of the volunteer recruitment procedure are

Personal Interview
Training
Participation

To participate in the Volunteers Programme, candidate volunteers must be at least 18 years of age on 31 December 2004. Volunteers serve in various different functional areas - sports, medical services, technology, environment, ceremonies, spectator services, administrative services, tourism & hospitality, Olympic & Paralympic Family transport, and so on and so forth. Volunteers also take part in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

The participation, passion and enthusiasm of all Volunteers will make these Games unique.

Let¡¯s all be there!