West Michigan woman lands Olympic volunteer role in Milan

Julie Warnke's persistence paid off after initially being selected as a reserve volunteer.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Julie Warnke, a resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan, traveled to Milan, Italy to volunteer at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Despite initially being selected as a reserve volunteer, Warnke's persistence paid off when she was offered a role just a day after arriving and checking in at the volunteer center. Warnke has been enjoying her time volunteering, including tasks like scanning tickets and directing people, and has made a new 'volunteer buddy' to work alongside.

Why it matters

Volunteering at major international sporting events like the Olympics provides an opportunity for regular citizens to be part of the action and contribute to the success of the games. Warnke's story highlights how determination and a positive attitude can help turn a reserve role into an active volunteer position, allowing her to be part of the excitement and energy of the Winter Olympics.

The details

When Warnke arrived in Milan, she was initially told that all volunteer positions were filled. However, she persisted and asked to have her name added to the list. The next day, she received an email offering her a volunteer role. After completing some additional training, Warnke started her first shift on Tuesday, where she got to scan tickets at the gate. Warnke has also met another local volunteer who has become her 'volunteer buddy' as they work together and have fun interacting with attendees.

  • Warnke landed in Milan a little over a week ago.
  • A month ago, Warnke was preparing for her trip to Milan, unsure if she'd get a volunteer role.
  • Warnke got the email offering her a volunteer role at 1pm the day after arriving in Milan.
  • Warnke's first volunteer shift was on Tuesday.

The players

Julie Warnke

A resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan who traveled to Milan, Italy to volunteer at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Milan

The host city for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“I kind of did not expect to get a volunteer role at that point.”

— Julie Warnke, Olympic volunteer (woodtv.com)

“I happened to check my email and at 1 in the afternoon, I got a role. I was like, 'Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, I'm a volunteer!'”

— Julie Warnke, Olympic volunteer (woodtv.com)

“Another lady got on that same train who actually lives in Milan and is a volunteer. She ended up becoming my, kind of my volunteer buddy all day today. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect person to volunteer with.”

— Julie Warnke, Olympic volunteer (woodtv.com)

What’s next

Warnke has a little over a week left before returning home and plans to volunteer at least four more times during her stay.

The takeaway

Warnke's story shows how persistence and a positive attitude can help turn a reserve volunteer role into an active, rewarding experience at a major international sporting event like the Olympics. Her experience highlights the excitement and camaraderie that can come from volunteering and being part of the games.