Volunteer
Each volunteer receives a coveted Ride the Drive tee! We also provide sunscreen, bug spray, water and snacks for your time. We ask all volunteers to be willing to assist as needed and please no smoking while volunteering or near the booths.
How to Volunteer
- Review the job descriptions below and choose a role that works best for you.
- Click the Register button.
- Check the shift(s) and select "Register" at the bottom of the page.
- Enter the requested contact information and adult t-shirt size. You will receive an email confirmation.
- On Sunday, May 17 report to your registered location. Meet the Madison Parks staff member and receive further instructions.
First-timer? If this is your first time volunteering for Ride the Drive, we provide a one-hour training on Saturday, May 2, 10:00 am – 11:00 am at the Goodman Maintenance Facility, 1402 Wingra Creek Parkway, Madison, WI 53715. Let us know you're attending by emailing: ridethedrive@cityofmadison.com. If you are unable to attend or need a quick refresher please review Volunteer Training 2020.
Volunteer Roles
Setup Crew
Shift times: 7:30 am – 10:00 am
Assist in unloading the trucks and setting up the booths, displays, tents, and activity areas. May also assist in setting up and moving barricades, cones and other traffic signs. Other assignments as needed. Overall making sure your area is ready for RTD to begin at 10:00 am. You must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Safety vest provided.
Bike Ambassadors
Shift times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, 11:45 am – 3:15 pm
Use own bike, helmet, and cell phone during your shift to provide mobile support within your assigned area and along the route. Your role is to ensure the event is running smoothly and safely. Support other volunteers with water, supplies and bathroom breaks and ensure all traffic cones, signs, and barriers are properly placed. Plan to be riding for the duration of your shift and bring a backpack or another means of holding/transporting supplies (water, snacks, first aid kit) such as a bike trailer or basket. Other assignments as needed. Safety vest provided.
Information Station Guides
Shift times: 9:00 am – 11:00 am, 10:45 am – 12:45 pm, 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Hand out RTD maps and water, answer questions. and smile! Assist with set up or tear down of the booth. Typically standing or bring your own chair, under a tent and out of direct sunlight. Other assignments as needed. Safety vest provided.
Balloon Inflator
Shift times: 9:00 am – 11:00 am, 10:45 am – 21:45 pm, 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Blow up, tie and hand out balloons. Typically standing outside of and near the Information Booth. Other assignments as needed. Safety vest provided.
Intersection Guides
Shift times: 9:15 am – 11:30 am, 11:15 am – 1:45 pm, 1:30 pm – 4:15 pm
Hand out information, answer questions and ensure safety. May assist with set up or tear down of barricades at your intersection. This position is in direct sun and standing or you may bring chair. Other assignments as needed. Safety vest provided.
Merchandise Tent Volunteers
Shift times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, 11:45 am – 3:15 pm
Sell t-shirts and other merchandise. Must be comfortable handling money and counting correct change. Typically under a tent and out of direct sunlight. Other assignments as needed. Safety vest provided.
Cleanup Crew
Shift times: 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Break down equipment (tents, tables, chairs) and load into trucks and trailers, remove signs, pick up trash, and overall cleanup of the park. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Other assignments as needed. Safety vest provided.