Written by Shohini Sengupta
Images courtesy of the Calgary International Children's Festival. Credit: Evodia Photography
Originally published in Stephen Magazine
These are a few of the rave reviews that have been used to describe volunteering with the Calgary International Children’s Festival. With a cast of over 700, volunteering is one of the most important parts of the Festival experience. For the children who attend each year, the volunteers in their brightly coloured festival t-shirts are a familiar and friendly sight. Each day, volunteer contributions translate into questions answered, crafts made, faces painted, parades marshaled and directions given. Volunteer roles also include working with the media, leading an activity or assisting school groups to and from their busses. With over 50,000 people visiting the festival every year in May, volunteers are busy!

“Great fun!” 

It isn’t all work all the time. With clown noses, funny hats and painted faces often part of their wardrobe, volunteers know they are going to have a good time. The festival begins for volunteers with “oreo-entations” and ends with closing night parties and farewell barbecues. There are new volunteers every year, but many volunteers return year after year to enjoy the camaraderie. During lunch shifts each day, the room is full of lively conversation and shared experiences. As an added benefit, volunteers are invited to attend one show for every shift they work.

“Rewarding” 

Volunteers receive many intangible rewards as well. There are many volunteers from high school or college programs who are keen to gain experience to enhance their resumes. There are specially-able volunteers, partnered with caregivers, who are able to connect with their community and contribute to it in new ways. Team-building brings many groups down to volunteer together. Corporate groups often volunteer to further the impact of their sponsored dollars.

“Amazing!” 

While every volunteer joins the festival cast for different reasons, in the end, each leaves with a fond place for the festival in their hearts.

“Eye-opening!”

To become a volunteer or to learn more, contact the festival volunteer coordinator at 403-294-7414, ext. 4 or email: volunteers@calgarychildfest.org


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