Volunteers
A Two-Way Street
Volunteers are an important part of the Achilles community and take on numerous roles, such as:
- Helping disabled runners become familiar and proficient with special equipment
- Participating in weekly or bi-weekly workouts
- Providing guidance and running advice during races and marathon
- Helping out with race-day logistics.
While their general role is to accompany disabled runners during the course of a workout or race, on any given day an Achilles volunteer will function as a member’s eyes, ears, guide, and motivator. But ask any Achilles volunteer why they do it, and you’ll hear the same answer, over and over: they get back as much as they give, and more.
Walking as a Volunteer with Achilles makes you a better person. The first time I walked with a visually impaired athlete during the Achilles Marathon in Prospect Park, she was able to tell me about the areas we were walking by. The birds and the open fields. I had the vision but missed what she heard by walking with me. I have learned to take better notice of the beauty in everyday life. We learn that you can accomplish whatever you want, there are only abilities no disabilities in life you just have to take advantage of them.
- Achilles Volunteer
How to Volunteer
To become an Achilles volunteer you must complete a volunteer application form. You can download a pdf of the form below and fax or mail it to us.
Achilles International
42 West 38th Street
NYC 10018
212-354-0300
fax: 212-354-3978
e-mail: volunteers@achillesinternational.org
*NYC VOLUNTEERS! Please click here to find out about all the local Achilles workouts and events!
2013 NYC MARATHON VOLUNTEER GUIDES
Information about becoming a guide for the NYC Marathon and the formal application to participate as a guide in the 2013 NYC Marathon will be available here on our website beginning mid-July and will come down at the end of August.
Thank you for your interest.