The Lakeland Region is officially calling on its communities to step up, as organizers of the 2026 Alberta Winter Games say volunteer numbers are currently well below what’s needed to host one of the largest sporting events ever brought to the region.

Craig Copeland, Chair of the Lakeland Region 2026 Alberta Winter Games, and Games Manager Violet Lapointe say the success of the Games will depend heavily on community involvement — and right now, more help is needed.

“We’re going to need about 1,500 volunteers to make these Games run smoothly,” said Lapointe. “At this point, we’re sitting at roughly one-third of that number signed up.”

A Massive Event for the Lakeland

The 2026 Alberta Winter Games will welcome an estimated 2,353 athletes, coaches and team staff into the region, with thousands more visitors expected to follow.

“That’s a lot of people coming into our communities,” Copeland said. “And with that comes a lot of moving parts. Volunteers are what keep everything running — from venues to meals to logistics.”

Volunteers will be required across a wide range of roles, including:

• Athlete and team support

• Venue operations

• Food services

• Registration and accreditation

• Transportation and logistics

• Event support and wayfinding

“No matter your age, background or experience, there’s a role for you,” Lapointe said. “We’ll match volunteers to positions that fit their comfort level and availability.”

Community-Powered Games

The Alberta Winter Games are known for being community-driven events, and Copeland says the Lakeland has a strong history of showing up when it matters.

“This region has always come through,” he said. “We know people here care deeply about hosting events well. We’re confident the volunteers will come — but we need them to start signing up now.”

Major partners are also stepping up to support the volunteer effort, including Strathcona Resources, the official volunteer sponsor, and CenovusCares, which is coordinating employee volunteer participation.

Registration Deadline Approaching

Volunteer registration is currently open through the Games’ official online volunteer portal.

Organizers stress that early sign-up is critical to allow for proper scheduling, training and coordination ahead of the Games.

“This is the biggest piece,” Lapointe said. “Volunteers are the backbone of the Alberta Winter Games. Without them, it simply doesn’t happen.”

How to Get Involved

Residents across the Lakeland Region are encouraged to check their calendars, talk with family, friends and co-workers, and consider volunteering together.

“This is one of those moments where you can be part of something big,” Copeland added. “Years from now, you’ll be able to say you helped bring the Alberta Winter Games to the Lakeland.”

More information and volunteer sign-up details are available through the Lakeland Region 2026 Alberta Winter Games volunteer portal.