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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. Apply to be an LPH

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.

NewActivities Forum: Wednesday, August 27 in the Pavilion from 6-9 p.m.

NewLPH Information Night: Wednesday, September 3 in Donahue Hall at 8 p.m.

NewAPPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 BY 5 P.M. to 214 Dougherty Hall


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 2008. 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 five committees that fall under HR director, Shannon Phillips. This year's LPH committee is comprised of sophomore chairperson Jared Streppa and sophomore assistants Allison Kralik and Stacey Braga, all three of whom were LPHs in 2007.

General questions regarding the 2008 LPH program can be addressed to: lph@villanovaspo.com or by calling the Special Olympics office 610.519.7244

Oftentimes, 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! Click here to fill out an application (you may handwrite on the cover sheet, but note that responses to the subsequent questions MUST be typed). 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 5! 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 8, 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 19 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 7 until 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 9
  • 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!!!