But the skaters weren't wearing skates last June-- they were on ladders with paint brushes.

As part of a community service program called Salt Lake Gold Rush, the speedskaters hope to do 2002 hours of community service.

Michael Thompson broke his back in a construction accident 13 years ago. He and his family watched as the team painted, patched the roof, installed a screen door and carpeted his wheelchair ramp.

Michael Thompson/Homeowner: OH MAN, IT MEANS MORE THAN I CAN SAY. I CAN'T PUT IT INTO WORDS HOW NICE IT IS.

These athletes come from more than a dozen states.

U.S. Speedskating's Gold Rush volunteer project is a way for athletes to really connect with Utahns, giving back to a community they hope will support them.

Three time Olympic medalist Amy Peterson says, volunteer work like this will give them a REAL hometown advantage.

Amy Peterson/Olympic Speedskater: IT'S JUST VERY WARMING TO KNOW THAT PEOPLE ARE OUT THERE CHEERING FOR US AND IT PUMPS US UP AND IT HELPS US ALONG, I THINK, A LOT MORE THAN PEOPLE REALIZE.