Volunteers
As you all know, we can't keep what we have unless we give it away. Service work is the backbone of all 12 Step Fellowships. 12 Step Music Fest is grateful for the spirit, dedication and hard work of the volunteers who come from all over to help make it happen.
Working in all phases of the event, volunteers help create a safe, clean and enjoyable weekend for all. They maintain the festival site, greet patrons, sell tickets, provide information, park cars, and direct traffic, assist campers, prepare food, recycle trash, provide emergency services, and many other tasks. As a volunteer, you will become a member of our unique volunteer family, and thousands of visitors will benefit from your service. Please read through this entire page, so you'll be sure volunteering is for you.
Basic Volunteer Information:
- EVERY VOLUNTEER must submit an application. Priority is given to those who apply early and to those who are able to arrive early. Be advised that there may be no openings on some crews.
- You must be able to work a minimum of three days. You should arrive by Thursday morning, for check-in and scheduling. See crew descriptions for details.
- Minimum age to volunteer is 18!
- Volunteers are assigned to their crew by the Volunteer Coordinator. Placements are based on festival needs, experience, and/or suitability to the tasks required. We will try to assign you when and where you wish, but this is not always possible. Schedules are arranged by your crew chief. Most volunteers work one 6 hour shift each day (you may work multiple shifts per day, for the die hard service junkies!!), depending on the crew. Most crew chiefs will allow you to swap a shift with a fellow crew member, if mutually agreeable.
- Read crew descriptions carefully and be sure you are willing and able to take on crew duties.
- We reserve the right to accept only volunteers that reflect our philosophy, values and standards. Volunteering is not always right for us or for you. In some cases, we may suggest you purchase a ticket and enjoy the show.
Additional points to consider:
Most volunteer jobs require some degree of physical activity. Whether it is standing, walking, lifting or other types of exertion, be prepared for some motion, and respect your own limitations. We all work hard, but we want your experience to be a positive one. Plan to be out in the elements during your time with us. Some work areas are tented, but many require protection from sun and/or rain. It might get chilly at night, so come prepared with gear for all types of weather. You'll be glad you did. Finally, be aware of your own time limitations and the needs of your family. If you want to volunteer and plan to bring your children, arrange for a friend or relative to watch them while you are working. Many families participate by signing up only one parent to volunteer, with the other taking on parental duties. We want your choice about volunteering at 12 Step Music Fest to be an informed one, and the right one for both you and our festival family.
Volunteer Appreciation Package:
In return for satisfactory service at the 12 Step Music Festival, our volunteers receive:
- Free admission to the festival
- Free camping privileges.
- Free volunteer tee shirt, to be worn while working
- 1 Free meal per shift worked
- Lots of appreciation from others and self-satisfaction for a job well done!
To maintain satisfactory volunteer status, volunteers must:
- Treat patrons and other volunteers courteously at all times.
- Arrive for your shift on time and ready to help.
- Complete all shifts assigned by your Crew Chief.
- Wear volunteer shirt while on duty.
Failure to comply with any of these requirements may result in revocation of volunteer status and festival admission and camping privileges.
How to Apply/Register
Everyone who fills out the online form will receive an e-mail letting you know it was received at The 12 Step Music Fest Office
New Applicants:
To Volunteer at 12 Step Music Fest, completely fill out the online form (be sure and let us know your talents in the essay question!) and click the button at the bottom to send.
ALL VOLUNTEERS must fill out the online application/registration form if they wish to be considered for a volunteer position. The application and registration are the SAME form. The online form is the preferred method. If you are unable to apply online you may download a printable form, and then mail the form to the Volunteer Coordinator, at the address found at the bottom of this page. However, online applications get the quickest response.
- Use one form per person. Note age restrictions for volunteering.
- Answer all questions. Incomplete forms cannot be accepted.
- If you wish to work with a friend/family member, use the notes section to let us know. We'll do our best to accommodate your request.
Follow Up:
ALL online applicants will immediately receive a confirmation e-mail stating that the form has been received.
New applicants will usually receive a subsequent phone call from the Volunteer Coordinator to discuss your expectations and experience, suitability and availability, and crew choice.
Special Note: Based on festival needs, not everyone who applies can be accepted. Some crews have, special requirements, fill up early, or have no openings. Be sure you read the crew descriptions, and then list 3 different crew preferences, so you have the best chance of being accepted. Be flexible, and we can usually find a place for you.
Got Questions?
If you have questions about volunteering, please e-mail them to:
volunteercoordinator@12stepmusicfest.com
Thank you.