With just over three months until Grande Prairie hosts the 21st Arctic Winter Games, organizers are nearly half-way to filling the volunteer needs of this international celebration of sport and culture.

2,500 volunteers will make the Games happen in Grande Prairie, and with close to 1,200 registered to-date organizers say they're happy with where they're at, while recognizing the long way left to go.

Director of Volunteers Linda Craik said the biggest misconception with prospective volunteers is that there's no rush to get their name down on paper.

"Every day I talk to at least one person who says ‘Absolutely I'm going to volunteer, I just haven't registered yet.'” Craik said. "What we're really trying to get across is the many things that have to be done behind the scenes between when you sign up and when you get your accreditation badge and schedule.”

Craik said RCMP clearances can take several weeks to process, not to mention the Alberta Hotel and Lodging Association training that's provided free to every volunteer, or the specific training that may be required for specific roles and tasks.

"And in some cases there are only a few people required for a specific task.” she said. "Some committees are already contacting prospective volunteers based on their interests, either with pre-Games volunteer opportunities or to get people in place to fill their Games-time schedules.”

Craik said when the shifts are full, they're full - so it's important to register early, especially if you have a specific interest or are travelling a long distance, like those volunteering from our contingent regions.

To register, go online to www.awg2010.org.

Step 1 – complete the registration form: indicate your interests and availability, and submit online.

Step 2 – download, print and complete the RCMP clearance form.

Step 3 – upload a photo for your accreditation badge.

Step 4 – bring the completed RCMP clearance form to the Games office with two pieces of government issued I.D. (one piece must have a photo, both must have your birthdate).

Submitted by Michelle Dupont and Linda Craik.