Thanks for your interest. The deadline for applications to become a 2009 LPH has passed, but the application can still be viewed here.

One Weekend, a World of Transformations

Since its inception in 2002, the Local Program Hosts (LPH) program has quickly taken off and become one of the many great ways a freshman can get heavily involved in the Villanova community and have an immediate impact.

Through the program, the approximately 80 freshmen selected to participate will undergo a rewarding and fulfilling experience that serves to both acclimate its participants with the basic ideals and philosophy of the Special Olympics movement and to provide a great way for freshmen to create bonds with those who share similar passions for volunteerism. Inspired by the Villanova program, Special Olympics North America (SONA) has begun implementing its own adaptations of the LPH program throughout its various programs across North America.

Important Dates
Wednesday, August 26th, 2009- Come see us at the Activities Forum in the Pavilion!
Tuesday, September 1st & Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009- Informational Meetings at Donahue about becoming a LPH
Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009- Check out our freshmen LPH & Awareness BBQ on South campus starting at 5:30
Friday, September 4th: APPLICATIONS DUE!

Becoming a Local Program Host (LPH)

Please note that the LPH program is open to all full-time students entering their first semester in the fall 2009. As part of the program's purpose to provide a way for freshmen to meet and cultivate relationships with other freshmen, it is important that each participant is a full-time student on the University's main campus. Candidates need not be on-campus residents.

About the LPH Committee

The LPH Committee is one of the five committees that fall under the HR Director, Jared Streppa. This year's LPH Committee is comprised of junior chairperson Caroline Steller and sophomore assistants Mike Rongione and Oby Ibe. All three are former members of the LPH program.

General questions regarding the 2009 LPH program can be addressed to: lph@villanovaspo.com or by calling the Special Olympics office 610.519.7244

Often times, it is asked whether an applicant needs prior experience in working with people with special needs. The simple answer is "No." Through our LPH training program, any questions, concerns, and even "fears" are addressed, and absolutely no experience is required. Through various workshops and seminars, active discussions among the LPH committee and the LPHs will generate a truly dynamic dialogue that will give all the "experience" someone needs.

Step 1 
Fill out an application: We won't know who you are unless you submit an application! When you're done, bring your application, with an attached picture, to the Special Olympics office, located at 214 Dougherty Hall.

Please note that the ALL applications are due by 5 p.m. on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4th! As the LPH program traditionally receives a high volume of applications for a limited number of spaces, no exceptions can and will be made for late applications.

Step 2

Check back with us: On Monday, September 7th, come back to 214 Dougherty Hall to see if you have been passed onto the second round for an interview. If you have been passed along, please remember to sign up for an interview time. (Tip: bring a planner with you so you can sign up for a time right on the spot!) Remember to show up to your interview no later than 15 minutes before your scheduled time, and as always, "proper" interview attire is always appreciated.

Step 3

Check back with us (again): On Friday, September 18th be sure to check back to see if you've been accepted to participate in this year's LPH program.

Your Responsibilities as an LPH

Local Program Hosts (LPHs) are primarily charged with the responsibility of being an exceptional resource for support for their assigned counties throughout the Special Olympics Fall Festival weekend. While LPHs are not asked to be able to provide medical attention or other professional services for the athletes or coaches, the LPHs are there to provide a way for athletes and coaches to gain an extra personal experience during their time at Villanova University. LPHs will create posters and other supporting materials to create the most positive experience possible for the athletes.

In order to create the most positive experience possible, LPHs are expected to be present throughout the entire Fall Festival, with the focus of the LPH experience centered around cheering and supporting their county's athletes and developing personal interactions and relationships with these athletes and coaches. It is this emphasis on the personal experience with the athletes and the bonds created that have made the LPH program one of the most rewarding and life-changing activities Villanova has to offer.

Basic Requirements

• Being available and present to each LPH meeting at 7:30 pm every Tuesday night beginning at the end of September until the Fall Festival
• Able to make additional meetings, if necessary, as the Fall Festival nears
• Being available and present for ALL Fall Festival activities beginning at 2 pm on Friday, November 6 until 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 8
• Commencing a series of correspondences to assigned counties
• Creating posters and other materials that go a long way in supporting the athletes
• A willingness to meet other freshmen and learn about the Special Olympics movement
• Other team-building activities as created by the LPH committee
• An open mind and a great attitude!!!