Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after I sign up online?
You will receive a letter with specific instructions about the shift you signed up for and with parking instructions, a pass and a parking map. Letters are mailed approximately one week prior to the event.
What if I cannot attend?
Email the volunteer coordinator, if possible, at the email address listed on the race web page. Please know that we are counting on you! Every volunteer is important to running a smooth event.
What if I cannot work the whole shift?
Once you sign up, we count on you for the full shift. We cannot replace you if you leave early. Sometimes the shift may seem over-staffed and slow, but often we are preparing for a rush or working around parking. We count on each volunteer for help at the busy end of the shift.
Can I split the shift with a friend?
No. Shift times are lengthy because it is difficult to arrive and park or drive away in the middle of a start or finish line shift. Additionally, we often have 400-600 volunteers scattered in a square mile… switching midway through a shift is difficult for the majority of our shifts. That is why it is crucial that volunteers remain for the full length of the shift. We can not replace you.
I did not receive my race crew information letter.
Letters are mailed 7-10 days prior to race day. If it is less than a week to the race and you still have not received your packet, scroll to the bottom of this document for parking instructions to each venue or come to the Health & Fitness Expo on Friday or Saturday (see the website for times and location).
The volunteer booth has extra passes for all shifts except water stations. **Water stations must contact the team captain and make arrangements.
I don’t belong to a group and didn’t get my water station information.
Water station letters and information are passed out at the group meetings and training. If you did not attend or do not know how to contact the captain directly there is no way to get the information.
You can just show up at a water station. Extra t-shirts and sign-up forms will be available there. You might also consider volunteering for a start or finish line shift instead.
I would like to volunteer at a water station.
Water stations are typically staffed by large groups. Captains meet prior to the event and plan a theme and compete for prizes with other large teams. As an individual it may be difficult to get the team information. We suggest volunteering at the start line or finish line for an exciting day.
Are meals provided?
Not for most shifts. While we discourage carrying items that can be lost, you will always have a corner or table where you can tuck a sack lunch. Feel free to bring snacks or a lunch with you.
Is parking paid?
All volunteers who have signed up online and received “race crew” instructions or have come to the Health & Fitness Expo to pick up the parking passes will have directions for complimentary parking on race day. We do not reimburse for parking at the Health & Fitness Expo.
May I bring a friend?
Yes, every shift has extra concert tickets, t-shirts and goodie bags, as well as blank waiver forms. We can always use extra help!
How should I dress?
You will receive a volunteer t-shirt that identifies you as a part of the Official Race Crew. We are often moving boxes, lifting items and walking for long stretches. Wear comfortable shoes, layers for cool to hot temperatures and clothes that are comfortable.
What should I bring with me?
As little as possible. There is no storage so you will have to carry any items you bring with you. Almost all areas will have a corner where everyone can set their coat or lunch but it will not be secure.
Can children volunteer?
The official age for an unaccompanied child to volunteer is 14. With supervision, adults may bring younger children. We are concerned about safety and the ability to stay focused on a job for the time involved.
We have many places that are good for children as long as the ratio of adults to children is adequate and the children are old enough to work the entire shift. Direct any questions on this issue to the volunteer coordinator in an email.
Do volunteers get a discount on race entry fees?
No.
What if I am unable stand for long periods of time?
The Health & Fitness expo requires numerous volunteers in the registration area on Friday and Saturday. Seated positions are available there. In addition, we require chip removal volunteers who are seated at the finish line. The solution and information booths at the start and finish line are also available.
Thank you in advance for your help in making the 2008 Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon the best ever!
