RALEIGH -- It's an extra special year for Special Olympics North Carolina as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. And in just a few short days the celebration will come to life, as 1,900 athletes take to the gym and field for the 2018 Summer Games.

Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair sat down with Rachel McQuiston of Special Olympics North Carolina, and Romas Gabbrielli, a global ambassador and athlete from Wake County, for an In Depth look at this years competition.

McQuiston told Spectrum News the summer games are always fun, but they’re extra special this year knowing the nonprofit has helped serve the community for more than five decades. She says from June 1-3, athletes will compete in nine sports, including athletics, bowling, cheerleading, cycling, gymnastics, powerlifting, softball, swimming and volleyball.  

Additional activities will include a victory dance, opening ceremony on Friday and healthy athletes screenings on Friday and Saturday. Gov. Roy Cooper will deliver a special message during the opening ceremony at 7:30 p.m. at Reynolds Coliseum on NC State’s campus.  

But they can’t make the event happen without volunteers, some 2,000 to be exact. And there are so many ways you can get involved. 

If you would like to volunteer, especially on Sunday, visit their website.

Everyone is encouraged to come and support these wonderful athletes.