Key factors influencing long-term engagement: a quantitative analysis of Special Olympics World Games 2023 volunteers
Antonia Hannawacker, Lina-Doreen Rose, Holger Preuss

TL;DR
This study explores what motivates volunteers at the Special Olympics World Games 2023 and identifies factors that help maintain their long-term involvement.
Contribution
The study introduces a new understanding of volunteer motivations and long-term engagement factors specific to the Special Olympics context.
Findings
Intrinsic motivations were more influential than extrinsic rewards in volunteer engagement.
A binomial logistic regression model explained 51% of the variance in long-term engagement.
Volunteers with prior experience were more likely to remain engaged long-term.
Abstract
The contribution of volunteers to the success of mega sport events is very valuable, as they dedicate their time and skills without financial compensation. Despite the undiminished enthusiasm for volunteering at events, grassroots sport in Europe faces increasing challenges in retaining long-term volunteers in sports clubs. This study aims to contribute to existing research by examining the characteristics and motivations of volunteers at mega sport events, with a particular focus on the Special Olympics World Games 2023 (SOWG 23). Furthermore, it seeks to identify factors that influence long-term engagement, ultimately promoting a sustainable volunteering legacy. A quantitative methodology was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire survey conducted in the context of the SOWG 23 in Berlin. The questionnaire addressed various domains, including satisfaction, expectations,…
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Taxonomy
TopicsSport and Mega-Event Impacts · Motivation and Self-Concept in Sports · Nonprofit Sector and Volunteering
