Article by Hannah Olson | Photos courtesy of Special Olympics

In May, Billings will welcome the Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games again, bringing over 1,000 athletes and their families to the city. This is the second of three years that Billings hosts the event, continuing a long tradition of celebrating athleticism, inclusion, and community spirit. With competitions ranging from track and field to soccer, bocce, and swimming, the event showcases the dedication and hard work of Montana’s athletes with intellectual disabilities. However, behind every successful competition stands an army of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to ensure the athletes have an unforgettable experience.

One volunteer is Tiffani Coleman, a lifelong advocate for Special Olympics Montana and a recent inductee into its Hall of Fame. Though she prefers to spotlight the athletes, Tiffani’s impact on Special Olympics is undeniable.

A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

For nearly 30 years, Tiffani has dedicated herself to the mission of Special Olympics Montana. She currently serves as the Competition Coordinator for the Yellowstone Valley Area, where she organizes local competitions and ensures athletes have opportunities to compete and grow. "I first learned about Special Olympics because my sister participated when we were young,” she shares. “After college, I started volunteering at competitions, doing small things like holding a timer or keeping score. It stuck, and now, almost 30 years later, I’m still here.”

That simple act of volunteering grew into a lifelong passion. Although she has served in various leadership roles over the years, her heart has always been in competition. "Sports have always been a big part of my life. I love what sports can do for everybody, building confidence, providing an outlet, and creating opportunities. With Special Olympics, I get to be part of that on a deeper level," Tiffani says.

THE BACKBONE OF SPECIAL OLYMPICS: VOLUNTEERS

Special Olympics Montana relies on over 6,500 volunteers statewide to organize and execute over 95 competitions annually. From certified coaches to day-of-event helpers, volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring athletes can compete safely and successfully.

“We will need over 1,000 volunteers for the games in Billings,” says Holly Netz, Marketing & Communications Senior Director for Special Olympics Montana. “Volunteers with all skill levels are needed, from set-up and tear-down to scorekeepers, athlete escorts, and lunch distributors. For most positions, no prior experience is necessary. We just need people willing to show up, learn, and have fun.” Tiffani echoes this sentiment: “If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, just try it once. Show up for a day, help with an event, you’ll see the impact immediately, and you just might get hooked like I did.”

MAKING AN IMPACT, ONE ATHLETE AT A TIME

Tiffani’s influence extends beyond competition logistics. She has been instrumental in expanding year-round athletic opportunities in the Yellowstone Valley Area, organizing everything from basketball and soccer seasons to winter

recreational programs like pickleball and floor hockey. “I’m not a winter person anymore, so instead of skiing and snowshoeing, I’ve helped add winter pickleball and floor hockey as indoor options for athletes,” she says.

Her dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. In 2024, she was

honored with the Special Olympics Montana Hall of Fame Distinguished Service Award for her unwavering commitment to the athletes. “Tiffani is the living embodiment of the mission of Special Olympics,” the award speech stated. “She is a one-woman planning machine who provides opportunities year-round, knows all the athletes and volunteers by name, and constantly recruits new people to ensure high-level competitions.”

For Tiffani, the reward is simple: seeing the joy in the athletes’ faces. “Being involved in Special Olympics isn’t just about coaching or competition, it’s about creating opportunities for athletes to grow, gain confidence, and be part of something bigger,” she says.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

The 2025 Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games will occur in Billings from May 14-16. Events will be hosted at venues across the city, including Rocky Mountain College, MSU Billings, MetraPark, and Lockwood High School. The Opening Ceremony at MetraPark on May 14th will celebrate unity and perseverance, highlighted by the arrival of the Flame of Hope.

“Volunteering for Special Olympics is one of the most rewarding things you can do. It’s not just about helping, it’s about being part of a community that uplifts and supports these incredible athletes.”

-Tiffani Coleman

Volunteers are needed in various capacities, from supporting individual athletes to assisting with logistics. Businesses and organizations looking for team-building opportunities are also encouraged to sign up. “This is a great opportunity for those working at companies that credit volunteer hours or individuals looking for a way to give back to the community,” Holly Netz emphasizes.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit www. somt.org or contact Special Olympics Montana.

BE THE DIFFERENCE

The spirit of Special Olympics Montana is rooted in community involvement. Volunteers like Tiffani Coleman exemplify the profound impact one person can have, not just on a single event but on the lives of countless athletes. Whether you commit to coaching, helping run an event, or volunteering for just a day, your time and effort contribute to a movement that fosters inclusion, determination, and joy.

Originally printed in the April 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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