''We rely on the generosity of volunteers. The games couldn't run without them,'' operations manager Tammy Jackman said.
Jackman said 580 volunteers were already in place for the November 26 to December 1 event, but more were needed to help with a wide variety of tasks.
Strong people are needed for baggage handling, others to meet and greet people at the airport and others to help with lunch distribution.
There are many volunteer jobs associated with the athletes at venues and to help with opening and closing ceremonies.
''Each part of the games is almost an event within an event,'' Jackman said.
''At the opening and closing ceremonies we need about 120 people to make it work.''
Volunteers have taken time off work or annual leave to help with the games.
The organising committee is responsible for the hosting of athletes from the moment they arrive in Dunedin until they leave.
There are 1597 team members - 1161 athletes and 436 coaches and managers - coming to the Special Olympics in Dunedin.
''We need people to help with their bags at the airport and also at the university halls of residence where they will be staying,'' Jackman said.
The athletes have trained hard for the event because it has become an important part of their life.
''Athletes from around the country email us every day. An athlete emailed us the other day who said he will only have 48 more sleeps until he competes.
''The athletes look forward to the games because they can meet their friends from throughout New Zealand again and gain a sense of achievement when they compete.''
The top three athletes in each event get medals and the other competitors a presentation ribbon.
Dunedin's Alma McGregor became a volunteer with Special Olympics through her son, Jason, who plays basketball and golf.
''It is not essential for people to have had experience in dealing with people with intellectual disabilities,'' she said.
''If people have the time they should volunteer. It is a rewarding and positive experience. Until you volunteer you have no idea how capable these athletes are.
''It is a different experience to mainstream sport. Their team could be losing by 100 points but if an athlete scores a basket it is as if they had won Lotto. Seeing the smiles on their faces and their reactions is priceless.''
Volunteers undergo a screening process that takes 30 days, so organisers need to have their final list by October 21.
• Anyone interested can contact Tammy Jackman via post (Operations Manager, Special Olympics, Box 969, Dunedin) or email (soom@sportotago.co.nz).
