Volunteer Games Makers FAQs
Be a part of this exciting international event and meet people from around the world while acting as an ambassador for Fairfax County and the National Capital Region. The 2015 World Police & Fire Games will feature thousands of public safety athletes from nearly 70 countries taking part in 61 sports in 53 area venues. And it will take over 3,000 VOLUNTEERS backing them up to make it all happen.
VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION
Volunteer Program
July 2014 – Present |
Open registration |
VOLUNTEERS can begin expressing interest in volunteering for the different positions |
Jan – March 2015 |
Review applications |
VOLUNTEER applications will be reviewed |
March 2015 |
Background checks begin |
Background checks will be processed for VOLUNTEER applicants |
March – May 2015 |
Notify applicants |
VOLUNTEERS will be notified and contacted about Pre-Games VOLUNTEER opportunities |
May - June 2015 |
Shift Assignments |
VOLUNTEERS will be notified of their Games roles, shift assignments, and training schedules AFTER sports bracketing has been completed |
May - June 2015 |
Training |
Depending on assignments, certain positions will require additional training |
June 2015 |
Uniform & Credentialing |
At the beginning of June VOLUNTEERS can pick up their uniforms & accreditation |
June 26, 2015 |
THE GAMES BEGIN! |
The VOLUNTEER Program will be “the Spirit of the Games.” They will be the teams of VOLUNTEERS that will be recruited to support the delivery of the Fairfax 2015 Games, such as:
- Language Services
- Parking
- Games Ambassador
- Spectator Seating
- Parade Marshall
- Accreditation
We have VOLUNTEERS helping us right now. If you are located in the Fairfax County and National Capital Region we can use you now. Whether you come to the office, or help us out at our events, we are looking for friendly, energetic and interested VOLUNTEERS. Contact us at volunteer@fairfax2015.com
We ask for all VOLUNTEERS to sign up for a minimum of four shifts (16 hours) during the 2015 Games. Each shift will be approximately 4-6 hours long, depending on the VOLUNTEER’s role and venue. Priority for scheduling will go to those available for four or more shifts.
We have a variety of VOLUNTEER roles, all of which require enthusiasm, commitment and motivation! We have roles for every type of VOLUNTEER. There are some roles that will require special skills and training. For a brief look at the roles click here.
It is expected that the Fairfax 2015 Games will recruit and engage 4,000 VOLUNTEERS.
VOLUNTEERING will provide you with an opportunity to be a part of this exciting international event.
- be involved in the delivery of the largest multi-sport, multi-venue event to come to Fairfax County and the National Capital Region
- meet athletes and visitors from all over the world
- show your pride in Fairfax County and the National Capital Region
- meet new people
- develop new skills
- HAVE FUN!
You must 18 years of age by July 6, 2015 to VOLUNTEER
We are accepting VOLUNTEER applications for the Fairfax 2015 World Police & Fire Games now on our website: www.fairfax2015.com/volunteer.
Volunteer Application and Selection Process
All VOLUNTEER applications are accepted pending a positive background result and scheduling will be offered with priority given to those able to meet the four shift minimum.
We will to the best of our ability match VOLUNTEERS based on their skills, experience, availability and “spirit” to the roles. The earlier one registers the better the chance you will have to get your first choice. Under these specific requirements applicants may not be offered their preferred role.
If you have any questions about your application, the process, or need to withdraw your application, please email us at volunteer@fairfax2015.com. To update your profile, please CLICK HERE
Background checks are processed for all VOLUNTEERS and will be followed up by email outreach to volunteers about pre-game volunteer opportunities. Position assignments and scheduling for VOLUNTEER shifts during the Games will be completed in May after bracketing. Training will be coordinated at that time. Please visit the VOLUNTEER page for the VOLUNTEER Journey Timeline.
If you have any questions about your application, the process, or need to withdraw your application, please email us at volunteer@fairfax2015.com. To update your profile, please visit CLICK HERE.
You can sign-up with as many of your friends as you would like. You can select a specific area and VOLUNTEER together. In the event that a job responsibility /area is full you may request to be assigned if an opening arises. We promise to do our best to meet everyone’s request!
There are no specific requirements to begin your application process. A few things to keep in mind are: a Government issued identification will be required for you to VOLUNTEER, background checks will be conducted and for VOLUNTEERS that are working in transportation, warehouse operations etc. you will be required to have a valid driver’s license. The VOLUNTEER application process takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and will cover details from availability to uniform sizes. You must complete the entire application form in order to save. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at volunteer@fairfax2015.com.
Volunteer Training
All VOLUNTEERS will be required to attend training in advance of their participation with the Games. The depth and extent of the training will be dependant on the role of the VOLUNTEER.
Training will be to prepare you for Games time and to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in your role. All VOLUNTEERS will receive orientation, role and venue specific training.
Trainings will be available on-line and in-person depending on the role. Training may begin as early as April and end as mid-June dependent on the VOLUNTEERS role and availability.
Scheduling and Event Days
Event Days can run as long as 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. VOLUNTEER shifts will run 4-6 hours, some will be shorter and some may be longer. If you are involved in the “field of play” area and/or the medical category, these shifts may run longer.
At the beginning of each workday/shift, a VOLUNTEER team leader will start the shift with an introduction, a brief overview of the days responsibilities and instructions. Each VOLUNTEER will be given the appropriate number of breaks depending on the shift duration for food, water and the necessities.
Generally, all shifts will go on as planned even in the case of rain. Severe weather may alter the outdoor sporting events, and thunder and lighting may disrupt your shifts. In the event of inclement weather, please check our web page www.fairfax2015.com for the latest information.
What is Provided to all Volunteers
Fairfax 2015 will provide all VOLUNTEERS with Games related attire. All VOLUNTEERS are required to wear the complete attire when performing their duties during the Games. You should wear comfortable shoes, as many positions will require you to be on your feet for long periods of time. Closed toe shoes are a must, with athletic shoes or boots are recommended.
You will be responsible for your own transportation to events for the Fairfax 2015 World Police & Fire Games (WPFG). Fairfax 2015 cannot reimburse VOLUNTEERS for travel costs associated with traveling to the Games. VOLUNTEERS may be able to utilize Games transportation within and around Fairfax County depending on venue shifts and reporting times.
We love VOLUNTEERS, but due to the large volume that is needed to ensure the success of the 2015 Games, VOLUNTEERS must provide (pay) for their own accommodations. Our Fairfax Accommodations Team can provide suggestions and/or recommendations for cost effective lodging.
Fairfax 2015, will provide credentialed VOLUNTEERS with meals and refreshments during all shifts worked. We do not provide VOLUNTEERS to the Games with per diem/stipends.
International Volunteers
Absolutely! If you can get here we can use you! Fairfax 2015 would welcome VOLUNTEERS that have participated in World Police & Fire Games previously. As with VOLUNTEERS from the United States you will be required to submit to a background check.
Disability
Fairfax 2015 aims to match all VOLUNTEERS with a role that is both suitable and enjoyable. We ask that you let us know of any particular access requirements so we can support you effectively.
Yes you can apply! Please include all relevant information regarding your disability with your application.