How can I sign up to volunteer?

You can visit our volunteer page at ANY time to sign up for an account.

How am I scheduled for shifts?

To sign up for shifts, you will need to sign into your volunteer account. You choose the shifts that you want, during the times that work the best in your personal schedule! All available volunteer shifts will be posted on your volunteer calendar (within your account) starting on August 16th at 9am. Please sign in early to get the shifts you would like!

Can I remove myself from a shift if something comes up?

Yes, You may change your schedule any time up until 48 hours before your shift starts. Please visit your volunteer account and remove yourself from your scheduled shift as soon as something comes up. For more scheduling information please visit our Scheduling Assistance page.

Who can volunteer?

Anyone ages 14 and older can volunteer for ArtPrize! You must sign up online and have a valid email address so that we can communicate with you any information that you will need. (High schoolers younger than 14 can send us a personal request!)

What time commitment does being an Artprize volunteer require?

Volunteers can commit to as little as one shift (typically around three hours long) plus an hour for orientation. Of course, we’d love for everyone to sign up for at least three. If you want to get involved but can only commit to volunteering one time, we’re happy to have you join the team!

Do I have to go to orientation?

The orientation/training is REQUIRED. All volunteers must attend a training session during the week before the event, or they will not be able to volunteer. Our volunteers will be well-informed representatives of our organization, and a short training will ensure that this is the case.

Where is orientation?

The locations of orientation/training will be at 41 Sheldon Blvd. We will be providing several options so that everyone can attend, including weekdays, weeknights, and weekend options.

Can Artprize artists also volunteer?

Yes, we’d be happy to have artists involved in volunteering opportunities. Please keep in mind that it is very important that ArtPrize not be connected with the promotion of your work. That means when you are volunteering, you are a volunteer. Any promotion of your work in the competition while volunteering will result in the termination of your participation with the Volunteer Team.

I need to sit down. Are there opportunities for me to volunteer that don’t require standing?

There are many opportunities that would not require long periods of standing. You may want to avoid Wayfinding shifts, as you will be expected to be on your feet for the duration of your shift.

Can I bring my kids to my volunteering shifts?

Unfortunately, we are unable to have children come along with their parents for their volunteer shifts. If your child is 16 years or older, they are invited to sign up with their own account as a volunteer, and would then sign up for their own shifts.

Do I need to eat before my shift?

We encourage you to be prepared for your shift and eat before you come. We will, however, have a few snacks available for you in our Volunteer Lounge so that you can grab a snack or a drink before or after your shift.

Will we get a T-shirt like the first year?

Again this year, volunteers will be provided with a vest, apron or pin to wear during their shift. There will be volunteer specific apparel again this year – details and designs TBA! To see what perks our volunteers get, please click on Rewards.

What are the perks of being an ArtPrize volunteer?

This year, each volunteer will be given a free ArtPrize 2012 Event Guide and wrist band for riding the ArtPrize shuttles as well as The Rapid Bus.

Additional benefits will be awarded as you work more shifts! For the first 3 shifts you work, you will get a voucher for 25% off your ENTIRE order at our gift shop. Every 3 shifts that you work after that, you will get a voucher for 50% off any item. Please review our full Rewards program for more details.

Can I pick what venue I volunteer at?

We cannot guarantee that you will be placed in or near the venue of your choice. Please be sure to set aside time to visit your favorite venues when you are not volunteering.

Where can I take the shuttle service to?

Shuttle services will be provided between Exhibition Centers throughout the 3 mile district. There are two shuttle routes available in 2012. More information TBD.

What if I don’t know my way around downtown Grand Rapids?

We will give you maps and resources so that you feel comfortable in the role of a Wayfinder. However, if you are still concerned about giving proper guidance, there are a lot of different opportunities to volunteer, please feel encouraged to pick a shift at The Hub instead.

As a Wayfinder, what information will I have with me to answer questions?

Wayfinders will be sent out with a full kit of information that will answer any question a visitor may throw your way. These kits will include a copy of the guidebook and map, as well as maps of downtown restaurants, available bathrooms, and other pertinent information. Answers to voting and event questions will also be provided to help you give consistent and complete answers.

What if it’s raining during the time I signed up for a Wayfinding shift?

Rain or shine, people come down in droves to visit ArtPrize during the short time period it is available. We count on our Wayfinders to assist them no matter what the weather! Be sure to dress appropriately for being outside for your entire shift, including umbrellas or raincoats if the skies look threatening.

Are any Artprize events free for volunteers?

ArtPrize is free for all visitors, and events unless otherwise noted will also be open to the public at no charge. There are three events that are just for our Volunteers! Please join us at our Kick off Party, Top ten celebration and Appreciation Party. Please review our Volunteer Calendar for more details.

What is the Facebook group page used for?

The Facebook group is a great place to get to know your fellow volunteers, share tips and stories, and stay updated on the most recent ArtPrize news. This will also be a great place to find out about last-minute needs in our volunteer opportunities!