SURREY - As the opening ceremony for the 2012 BC Summer Games draws nearer, the need for volunteers is increasing.

Organizers of the four-day event (July 19 to 22 , which gives more than 2,000 young athletes from across B.C. an opportunity to compete against some of the province's top sporting talent, are making a plea for more volunteers.

"We have such a good volunteer base in this city as well as the surrounding areas that like to participate, so we just have to continue to push and let people know the games are coming," said Bill McNamara, co-chair of the BC Summer Games.

Organizers currently have close to 200 volunteers but need 3,500 to help offer the young athletes the best experience possible.

Volunteers are need for everything from food services and communication, to security and transportation.

McNamara says the games are not just a great experience for the kids but offer some wonderful opportunities for volunteers as well.

"There's a lot of interesting areas that people may have wanted to get into but have never had the opportunity," he said.

"We are very fortunate that we have businesses out there that support these types of programs and they do come out and give us in kind or some cash to make these events possible. But if it wasn't for the volunteers, this wouldn't happen," he added.

McNamara encourages anyone interested in getting involved, or who just want to have a great time, to come out the torch lighting ceremony happening this Thursday at Bear Creek Park in Surrey.

There will be performances and an Olympic-style torch lighting where young athletes ignite the main torch for the games.

The ceremony runs from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. but McNamara suggests arriving early to find parking and watch the festivities get underway.

To find out more or to volunteer, register online at www.2012bcsummergames.ca.