How to get hands on experience for SQL Server 2008 ?

It seems that SQL Server 2008 is a good database. I have learned and practiced on my own . And also have some experience with Oracle 7. Unfortunately, my employers doesn’t provide me any opportunity for hands on experience and I am stuck to Desktop Support role. I cannot afford to change my job. Any advice on how to gain experience and become an expert so that I can be confident enough to leave this job and move to a DBA role in a different company ?