The B.C. Winter Games will be taking place in Mission Feb. 20-23.

The District of Mission was one of six communities who bid for the event, and this is the first time the municipality has hosted a B.C. Games.

The Games includes participants from across the province in 18 sports and the athletes will range in age from nine to 40 years old. Up to 2,220 athletes, coaches and officials are expected.

A number of the sporting events will happen in Mission, while others will be carried out in Abbotsford, Township of Langley, Pitt Meadows, Hemlock and Whistler.

Integral to the Games' success will be volunteer efforts. About 2,500 people are needed in a variety of roles to bring the event together.

If you are interested in volunteering, please visit bcgames.org and click on "Volunteer Now." You can also go by the Games office, located at 32386 Fletcher Ave. But please call ahead (604-820-7529) or send an email to info@bcwintergames.org to ensure someone is available.