Volunteering with SPIRIT Wake Forest through the Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department provides an array of opportunities to support experiences, create meaningful connections for individuals with disabilities. Opportunities vary throughout the year and include programs, leagues, special events, and community celebrations.
Please review the Frequently Asked Questions section and if you have any additional questions about volunteering, contact PRCR Specialized Recreation and Inclusion Coordinator Sandy Guerrero Flores at 919-435-9560.
Current Opportunities
Journey League Basketball
Journey League is an inclusive basketball program for teens and young adults with special needs. The program focuses on teamwork, skill development, physical activity, and fun in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Volunteers assist with coaching and supporting players during practices and games. Volunteers are asked to attend at least four practices per season.
Club Connect
Club Connect is a monthly social program where participants build friendships through games, creative activities, and group-led planning. The program offers a welcoming and inclusive space to connect with peers.
Volunteers support program staff by assisting participants throughout the program. This may include providing encouragement, one-on-one support, or helping with activities.
Abilities Tennis
Abilities Tennis of North Carolina (ATANC) offers adaptive tennis programming for athletes with intellectual disabilities, ages 8 and up.
Volunteers help make these clinics possible by assisting athletes on the court with ball and racquet drills. Athlete skill levels vary - from learning how to hold and swing a racquet using red-dot starter balls to playing full-court tennis with standard yellow balls.
Decades Dance
Decades Dance is a vibrant and inclusive dance event designed for individuals with disabilities. This themed event celebrates the music, fashion, and fun of the 1990s in a welcoming and accessible environment.
Volunteers may serve as buddies, help with refreshments, or act as chaperones to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
Miracles in Motion
Miracles in Motion is an inclusive dance program for children, teens, and young adults with a wide range of support needs. Classes include warm-ups, stretching, ballet and jazz techniques, choreography, improvisation, and fun dance games. An optional performance opportunity will be available in June.
Peer mentor volunteers provide encouragement and assistance throughout the class, helping participants feel confident and supported.
Sensory-Friendly Fireworks Watch Party
The Sensory-Friendly Fireworks Watch Party takes place on July 3rd and is designed for individuals of all ages who may be sensitive to loud noises or large crowds. Participants can relax and enjoy the fireworks in a calm, more peaceful setting.
Volunteers assist with event set-up and breakdown and help welcome and support guests during the event.
Snowball Dance
Snowball Dance is a Winter Wonderland–themed event celebrating movement, connection, and community for individuals with disabilities. The community center is transformed into a snowy paradise with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and cozy winter vibes.
Volunteers may provide peer support, serve food, assist in the sensory room, or help in the parent respite area. Volunteers are encouraged to dance, snack, and socialize with participants.
FAQs
There are two ways to register.
Option 1: Register Online
Sign up through our online registration portal.
Click Filters>Category Filters>Specialized Recreation.
Under Program Name, type VOLUNTEER.
Browse all available opportunities, including:
- Abilities Tennis Clinics
- Dances
- Journey League
- Miracles in Motion
- Sensory-Friendly Firework Watch Party
*Programs vary by season
Option 2: Contact Us Directly
For program-specific volunteer opportunities, such as Club Connect or Boundless Buddies, reach out to our Specialized Recreation and Inclusion Coordinator:
Sandy Guerrero Flores
919-435-9560
Volunteers ages 15 and older may assist with SPIRIT dances.
Volunteers must be at least 12 years old to participate in all other programs.
As a volunteer, if you are 18 or older, you will be required to submit a background check. This process is free of charge and does not require payment.
All other volunteers are required to submit a Volunteer Release and Waiver of Liability Form.
Please note: These steps must be completed prior to participating in any of our programs.
Yes, prior to the event, you will receive communication with event details, along with a brief training scheduled before the event or program.
These trainings typically last between 5-15 minutes.
For role-specific responsibilities, we will provide a more in-depth information session on the day(s) leading up to the event.