Volunteer

Sept 18-Oct 4

Every year, ArtPrize volunteers help welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors to Grand Rapids, turning our city into a vibrant hub of creativity and connection.

Join

It’s you, our dedicated volunteers, who bring the energy, warmth, and heart that make ArtPrize such a memorable experience. You don’t just support the event, you make it the place to be every fall!

Welcome!

Check out the volunteer opportunities below:

HOW IT WORKS

Review our volunteer opportunities - PDF
Signup + choose your first shift
Come to an optional, pre-orientation meet-up to connect with fellow volunteers
Attend an in-person or virtual orientation
Start making an impact!

Why get involved?

● Community impact- volunteer alongside community organizations like the Grand Rapids Public Museum and Grandville Avenue Arts and Humanities

● Connect with like-minded individuals- join the hundreds of volunteers that make ArtPrize possible

● Experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities-like Arborialis

● Receive volunteer-exclusive SWAG- depending on the number of shifts you complete:
-1 Shift: ArtPrize Volunteer T-Shirt
-2 Shifts: All previous + 2025 Enamel Pin
-3 Shifts: All previous + SWAG Bag
-4+ Shifts: All previous + Raffle Entry to Win VIP Tickets to Awards Ceremony

● Attend a volunteer-only event in November (details coming soon!)

Important Dates

● Meet ups:

-8/22 Morning Ritual at 5:30PM
-8/27 Quickwater at 2:30PM
-9/4 ArtPrize ClubHouse (40 Pearl St) at 5:30PM

● In-person orientations at the ArtPrize ClubHouse (40 Pearl St):

-Sept. 5, 5:30–7PM
-Sept. 6, 11AM–12:30PM
-Sept. 12, 5:30–7PM
-Sept. 13, 11AM–12:30PM

Join

Can't attend an in-person orientation?

Training video

Watch the training video below (or click the link to view on YouTube).

View the Volunteer slide deck (PDF)

Orientation Deck

FAQS

What is the time commitment to becoming a volunteer?

All volunteers are required to attend an orientation session. After this, our volunteers can sign up for as few or as many shifts as they would like. ArtPrize does offer a tiered reward system for volunteer hours worked, starting with a volunteer t-shirt after you finish your orientation! Special recognition is also given to our most involved volunteers.

Are there any age requirements to volunteer?

To independently volunteer, you must be 18 or older and be willing to complete a background check to apply. If accompanied by a chaperone or guardian, and pre-approved by our Volunteer Manager, individuals under 18 may apply to volunteer. For more information on this, please email volunteer@artprize.org.

What should I bring to my shift?

Bring yourself, your volunteer t-shirt, a water bottle, and any personal items you may need to stay comfortable and supported throughout your shift. We recommend that you leave any bags, purses, or valuables in your vehicle or at the ArtPrize ClubHouse to ensure the safety of your items.

**Note: ArtPrize is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

What roles are accommodating for volunteers with differing abilities?

All of our roles can be made accessible to volunteers of all abilities. If you have any specific needs, please let us know during the registration process. We’re happy to work with you to find a role and provide the support or modifications needed to ensure you have a comfortable and rewarding experience.

Do I need experience to volunteer for any of the available shifts?

No prior experience is necessary to volunteer for any of the available shifts. We provide all the training and support you’ll need to feel confident in your role. Just bring a positive attitude and a willingness to help!