Vance helps athletes shine in Special Olympics Published Nov. 2, 2006 By Tech. Sgt. Mary Davis Public Affairs Vance Air Force Base, Okla. -- Vance's Special Olympics coordinator is looking for gold on April 21, not gold medals - hearts of gold to help with the daylong athletic event. "The event will take a combined effort of about 175 volunteers from Vance and the local area," said 1st Lt. Mark DeYoung, 71st Communications Squadron, and Vance Special Olympics event coordinator. "People can volunteer in a variety of areas to assist." Some volunteer opportunities include stagers, timers, cheerers and measurers for the athletic events. People can also volunteer to set up/tear down tents, register athletes and coaches, direct traffic, serve food or help with the awards ceremony. Vance hosted Special Olympics for more than 12 years, said Sue Glasgow the Area 6 Special Olympics director. "It's all about the athletes," she said. "It's a chance to use your abilities to help others use their talents." Senior Airman Renata Garcia, a customer service representative at the military personnel flight, volunteered last year at the track and will do so again this year. "The athletes are so upbeat and joyful," said the senior airman from Miami. "Their spirit and determination really caught my eye." Although she remained busy for the event, Airman Garcia got to interact with the athletes and share in their joy. "Helping out may seem insignificant to us, but it means a lot to the participants," she said. "It's definitely a good time and a great experience." Volunteering helps people give of ourselves for a good cause, said Lieutenant DeYoung. "It's a great opportunity to contribute back to the local area for being welcome hosts to Vance Air Force Base," he said. People who would like to become a Special Olympics volunteer can sign up on a spreadsheet located on the wing shared drive at S:\Public\Briefings\71stFTW\Briefings\ Olympics or call Staff Sgt. Toriano Banks at 7694.