The Nevada Special Olympics Program has been in operation for a very long time.

Pahrump's program, however, has struggled to exist.

Everything was fine for about seven years, then problems and a death caused the program to close. Kay Jones, one of the early members, has taken over the program and is working to bring life back and make it successful.

Jones has worked with disabled children and the Special Olympics for 20 years starting in Las Vegas. "The Pahrump program is limited in what it offers," said Jones. She added, "The problem is the number of available coaches -- we only have a few. Local support is really needed to make the program work."

Special Olympics is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic sports for people 8 years of age and older who have developmental disabilities.

The type of activities offered helps them obtain courage, experience joy, and share gifts, skills and friendships with others. While younger individuals cannot participate in events, thry can join in the training.

During its prior years, the Pahrump group won gold medals at the national finals in Iowa, with one athlete selected to attend the international events in Japan. Unfortunately, due to lack of funds and other issues, he could not go.

In the next years, the basketball team took gold again in the Nevada competition by a hefty margin. Of the 26 events entered, Pahrump took gold in 20.

Current volunteers who have signed on to coach are: Bruce Cox, basketball, Lorraine Macky, track and field, and bowling, Bill Klim, track, Charly Yates, everything, Ruth Murray, track and bowling, Monty Roman, track, bowling and floats, and Audrey Gourley, everything.

While the program pursues many activities, due to limited coaches and locations, many others cannot be offered.

A few of those not available include gymnastics, roller skating, judo and softball.

There is no cost involved with any Special Olympics programs, and positions offered to volunteers include head coaches, assistant coaches, officials, trainers, and other vital roles. No experience needed -- they train you.

However, each participant must have a doctor's release. The Pahrump program is looking for any and all participants.

Competitors will practice weekly and must be available for 12 weeks. Bowling will begin Aug. 6, basketball in January 2008, track and field in March, with the state finals taking place in May. Applications for volunteers/athletes can be obtained from Jones. Volunteers must have a background check completed prior to participating.

"The Special Olympics is one of the greatest programs available. I have worked with severely challenged in a one-on-one capacity. I would like to see more kids and parents get involved," said Jones.

For more information, or to obtain applications contact Jones at 775-751-4942.