The J is calling on community members to volunteer in support of the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games as Kansas City prepares to host the international Jewish youth sports event from Aug. 2 to 7.

More than 1,000 volunteers will be needed throughout the week to welcome athletes, coaches and families from across the United States and around the world.

Kelly Somberg, co-chair of the volunteer committee, said community support will be essential to creating a successful and meaningful experience for everyone involved.

“I have done an extensive amount of volunteer work in our community, but I have never been involved with something on this scale,” Somberg said. “It is a real privilege to serve as one of the volunteer co-chairs.”

Somberg said months of planning have already gone into preparing for the Games, with volunteers and staff working side by side to build an unforgettable experience for visiting delegations.

“Our steering committee has already spent months meeting and laying the groundwork for the Games,” she said. “The J staff have been incredible. They are working alongside volunteer chairs, on top of their day jobs, to lead all the Maccabi committees. It truly is a great partnership and what we can accomplish when we work together for the good of our community.”

Community members across Kansas City are already answering that call in a variety of ways. Alex Worth, a Kansas City community member, said the Games present a unique opportunity for local residents to support visiting athletes while showcasing the strength of the city’s Jewish community.

“Volunteering for the Maccabi Games was an easy choice for me,” Worth said. “I love Kansas City and our growing Jewish community. This felt like the best way to help out.”

Somberg said the Games will also give Kansas City an opportunity to showcase its warmth and hospitality to visitors from around the world.

“I am excited to welcome delegations of athletes from around the country and even the world to Kansas City,” she said.

For some volunteers, the motivation comes from firsthand experience with the Games. Gabriel Perez, who will serve as a boys soccer coach for this year’s Games, said volunteering was an easy decision after previously experiencing the impact as a coach in the Games.

“I was part of the 2024 Houston Maccabi Games and got the opportunity to work alongside great coaches and coach some amazing soccer athletes,” Perez said. “Above all, I got to see how impactful this tournament was for the kids. They get to be part of something that could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the connections you build with coaches and athletes are remarkable.”

Worth said volunteers play an important role in creating a welcoming environment and helping athletes enjoy a memorable week both on and off the field.

“If you’re considering volunteering for the Maccabi Games, do it,” he said. “You’ll meet new people and help athletes from across the world continue to grow as athletes and people.”

Volunteer roles will include greeting families at the opening ceremonies, serving meals, assisting at evening events and more throughout the week. Community members can also support the Games by serving as host families for visiting athletes. Jewish families interested in hosting are required to house at least two athletes, with each athlete needing their own mattress or air mattress, along with access to meals, laundry and daily transportation to The J.

Volunteer shifts are expected to open in early May.

More information is available at jcckcmaccabi.org. Those interested in volunteering or hosting athletes can email or .