Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions?

HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO VOLUNTEER?

You can start volunteering at the age of 13.  However, volunteers between the ages of 13-17 must submit a Volunteer Waiver form signed by their Parent/Guardian.

ASIDE FROM AGE, WHAT ARE THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS TO BE A FESTIVAL VOLUNTEER?

Most volunteer positions are physically demanding to some degree whether it be standing, sitting, walking, lifting or using tools for extended periods of time.  All roles require some level of attention to detail and require the completion of the Accessibility/Customer service training. Lastly we have some positions available which require specific knowledge or certifications (ie. Smart Serve, Police Check etc.) 

I HAVE A PHYSICAL/MENTAL DISABILITY.  IS VOLUNTEERING FOR THE FESTIVAL STILL ACCESSIBLE TO ME?

We are happy to have all volunteers join us! Please read the volunteer job descriptions carefully to select which job fits your skills best.

HOW MANY SHIFTS DO I NEED TO DO?

We request that each volunteer commit to a minimum of 3 shifts, however this is subject to change closer to the festival in order to fill specific roles.

CAN I VOLUNTEER IN MORE THAN ONE SECTION?

Yes! You can choose to volunteer in multiple areas.

HOW LONG IS EACH VOLUNTEER SHIFT?

Most shifts are 4 hours long, but shift times may vary.

AM I EXPECTED TO SHOW UP FOR ALL THE SHIFTS I SIGN UP FOR?

It takes a lot of people to ensure a fun and successful festival for everyone involved, therefore we expect that you will be present for the shifts which you have registered.  If there is an emergency situation please contact the Volunteer Services Team immediately.

I’D LIKE TO VOLUNTEER WITH MY FRIENDS.  CAN WE BE SCHEDULED TO WORK TOGETHER?

Upon registration your group should each register for the same area, same time periods and let us know in the comments to ensure that your group is volunteering as a team.

CAN MY VOLUNTEER TIME COUNT FOR HIGH SCHOOL HOURS?

Yes! Your volunteer leader would be happy to sign your student volunteer form at the end of each shift. 

WILL THE FESTIVAL CONTINUE REGARDLESS OF WEATHER?

Please come prepared for all types of weather as the festival and volunteer requirements will continue rain or shine!

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CANNOT ATTEND THE MANDATORY TRAINING SESSION?

There is only one mandatory orientation night that we request you attend.  This is an important night as you will meet your Volunteer Leader, co-volunteers, understand your role, pick up your volunteer package and tour the festival grounds.  Should you be unable to attend, please contact the Volunteer Services Team.

HOW DO I CONTACT VOLNTEER SERVICES IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

You can contact the Volunteer Services Team at [email protected] or by phone at 613-238-7711 x222.

WHAT IS ACCESSIBILITY CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING?

All volunteers must complete accessibility/customer service training before volunteering, as mandated by the province of Ontario. The purpose of this act is to increase awareness and services for people with disabilities. If you have already completed this training, you do not need to complete it again. It is available online at: www.accessforward.ca/customerService/intro

WHEN DO I GET MY FINAL SCHEDULE CONFIRMATION?

You can view your schedule anytime leading up to and during the festival by logging into your Race Roster account and visiting the Participant Dashboard. Any changes made by the festival will be communicated by email and/or messages on the participant dashboard so watch your email and dashboard for updates. If you have any questions, please contact the Volunteer Services Team at [email protected].

CAN I MAKE CHANGES AFTER I HAVE COMPLETED MY REGISTRATION?

Simply log into Race Roster and use the “Edit Registration” button on your Participant Dashboard to modify the areas and shifts. However, please do your best to stick to the schedule you have selected. If you need to cancel a shift, for any reason, please email the Volunteer Services Team at [email protected].

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL ONE OF MY VOLUNTEER SHIFTS?

If you need to cancel a shift for any reason please email the Volunteer Services Team at: [email protected].

IS THERE ANY VOLUNTEER PARKING ON SITE?

There is limited parking available onsite.  Volunteer parking passes will be distributed at the Mandatory Orientation Meeting.  We also encourage our volunteers to utilize public transportation or ride your bike to the festival as part of our environmental awareness initiative. 

DO MY VOLUNTEER SHIFTS INCLUDE MEALS?

We are happy to announce that complimentary meals and refreshments will be provided to all volunteers for each shift worked. Note that although the festival tries to provide meal options that are suitable for a range of dietary restrictions not all are met. If you have specific dietary restrictions or food allergies, we recommend bringing a meal or eating before/after your shift.

WILL I GET BREAKS ON MY VOLUNTEER SHIFTS?

You may not have the opportunity to take a break for a meal during your shift, so plan to eat before or after.

WHO DO I REPORT TO?

Volunteers will have a Volunteer Leader to directly report to with any questions or concerns, as well as to check out after a shift.  The Volunteer Village will be for sign in purposes only.

IS THERE A DRESS CODE FOR VOLUNTEERS?

All volunteers will be issued one festival volunteer t-shirt as your uniform which you are expected to wear during your shift. 

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME TO MY VOLUNTEER SHIFT?

You will need to bring your volunteer t-shirt. To be comfortable for all types of weather conditions, you may also want sunscreen, a hat, comfortable footwear, a jacket, bug spray, rain gear, etc.  We do not provide a secure area for personal property.  We recommend bringing knapsacks or fanny packs large enough to carry the items you require for your shift. 

WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED DURING MY VOLUNTEER SHIFT?

Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the festival grounds and alcohol consumption is not permitted while on duty. Please limit personal cellphone use while on duty, especially when there are tasks to be completed.