HAMMOND — Special Olympics Louisiana needs more volunteers for its upcoming State Summer Games, as athletes from Mississippi will compete in Louisiana this year. 

Competitors with Special Olympics Mississippi will compete alongside Special Olympics Louisiana athletes at the State Summer Games from May 22-24 at Southeastern Louisiana University. SOLA announced the "landmark collaboration" between the two states on Wednesday. 

"This one-time partnership marks a significant expansion of State Summer Games, providing an unparalleled opportunity for cross-state friendship and athletic excellence," SOLA said in a news release. 

Athletes will compete in bocce, golf, pickleball, powerlifting, and track and field. 

With this year's influx of athletes, SOLA needs more volunteers than in previous years. 

"Volunteers are the backbone of the Special Olympics movement, and their time and passion are essential to ensuring a safe, exciting, and rewarding experience for every participant. Whether you are an individual, a student group, or a corporate team, there is a role for you," the organization said.

Volunteers will help with event operations, athlete escorts, awards ceremonies, cheering sections and more. 

Those interested in volunteering can learn more here.