ITHACA, N.Y. (WENY)-- The Special Olympics is set to be held in Ithaca on June 14 and 15. The organization is looking for about 450 volunteers. About 1,200 athletes are expected to participate in this year's summer games.

''It is an amazing and inclusive community and we have amazing volunteers . It's a lot of fun and we are so proud of our athletes and everything they are accomplishing,'' said Stacey Hengsterman, the President of Special Olympics New York.

These games occur every year in New York and this is the third consecutive year the summer games are being held in Ithaca. For many of these athletes, this is the highest level of competition as only few get to participate in the USA and World Games.

For many of the athletes these games are provide a sense of joy and belonging. Kinsey is a long time Track and Field athlete and she is ever grateful for being part of the Special Olympics New York Games.

''It changes my life more than I could even imagine. It brought me to a place where I have met a lot of friends. I have done a lot of stuff and I a have done more than I ever could,'' said Kinsey Henry.

The organization is looking for over 400 volunteers to help out with the summer games in Ithaca.

''We really need volunteers. We can not do it without volunteers. I am hoping that you look at that weekend with your family, friends and coworkers to come spend the weekend with us. You do not need to be an athlete or have a sports background. We train on the spot,'' said Stacey Hengsterman.

 Information on volunteering can be found by visiting the Special Olympics New York website .