Island Fantasy Ball 2010 Volunteers

Thank you for your interest in volunteering for the Island Fantasy Ball! Without volunteers, our Gala event would not be possible. This year, because of the ongoing success of Island Fantasy Ball, our competition has grown from a one day event to two days.

There are many volunteer positions that must be filled. Each position involves different tasks, responsibilities and skills--there's something for everyone!

We have certain expectations of all our volunteers: to follow through on their commitments; to follow the guidelines that apply to their positions (e.g. dress code); to be good representatives of Island Fantasy Ball to our guests, and to have fun!

Volunteer shifts are four hours to all day long. However, this varies according to the position. For example, shifts for runners, ushers and marshals run the length of a competition session, while shifts for security volunteers may start earlier or end later than other shifts. We also need help with set-up and take down.

If you have any questions about volunteering for Island Fantasy Ball, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Mike Linfitt, at volunteer@islandfantasyball.com.

See you at Island Fantasy Ball!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a ticket to be a volunteer?

You do not have to have a ticket for the time that you are volunteering. However, if you want to attend the Island Fantasy Ball at any other time, you must buy a ticket for that time. Note that due to very limited space, volunteers are not given seat tickets and are not guaranteed to see any events. Most volunteers do not work inside the ballroom.

Is there a dress code for volunteers?

Yes. A suit and tie or semi-formal wear for ladies is sufficient.

Can I drop in at the Island Fantasy Ball and help out without registering as a volunteer?

No. We require all volunteers to register and provide certain information about their expertise and experience before the event. While we are grateful for all assistance, please let us know in advance if you can help.

What do I do if I register as a volunteer but find I cannot make it?

Please inform the Volunteer Coordinator as soon as possible by email to volunteer@islandfantasyball.com

Will I get the position I request?

The Volunteer Coordinator will try to place you in the position you request. However, the position you are given depends on a number of factors, including how early you register as a volunteer, the availability of the position you requested, your previous experience and any special skills you have. If you are placed in a position you did not request, you will be contacted to obtain your consent.

IFB Volunteer Positions

These descriptions are guidelines only, and some positions may not be included.

Marshallers

• Position is appropriate for experienced competition volunteers or ex-competitors only
• Organize competitors to enter ballroom for each competition round, in marshalling area
• Call competitors from dressing rooms and elsewhere as necessary; count couples; determine whether heats should be added or cancelled; liaise constantly with Floor Manager and Registration by headset
• Involves long periods without a break and high stress levels
• Qualities for a marshal: experience in competition, ability to process information quickly, high level of organization, assertive, good problem solver, willingness to take on responsibility, strong team player, ability to keep calm and work well under stress.

Registration

• Work with Registration Manager to ensure all couples are properly registered for competition events
• Ensure registration forms and waivers are signed, cash deposits paid, and couples registered for appropriate events
• Liaise with Marshalling and Floor Manager to advise of cancellations
• Answer general questions from guests
• Involves a combination of heavy "rush" times and periods with little to do
• Qualities for a registration volunteer: good organizational ability, ability to multi-task, ability to process information quickly, good team player, courteous, ability to keep calm and work well under stress

Set up and Take down

• Assist in setting up ballroom and lobby area prior to event (includes setting up chairs, setting up tables, posting signs and hanging banners, etc.)
• Assist in Take Down after the event (includes cleanup, stacking chairs, collecting signs, ensuring site is clear at the end of the event)
• Qualities for set-up/strike-down: physical mobility, team player, ability to follow instructions
• Note: some lifting of heavy objects may be required

Ticket Checkers

• Ensure no one gets past the ticket table without a ticket or re-entry pass, including competitors.
• Tear off the ticket stub from all tickets. Return the stubs to ticket sales Manager
• Hand out the re-entry passes and collecting the passes when guests return.
• Direct the competitors to registration
• Field questions from the general public
• Involves a combination of heavy "rush" times and periods with little to do
• Qualities for a ticket volunteer: well organized, attention to detail, good people skills

Programs

• Sell Island Fantasy Ball programs at table set up near entrance to venue and by circulating amongst guests
• Collect and keep track of cash payments
• Qualities for a programs volunteer: friendly, courteous, assertive, and able to count and keep track of cash, a "seller"

Cashier

• Sell bar tickets on Saturday evening
• Collect and keep track of cash payments
• Qualities for a Cashier: well organized, ability to keep calm with a large lineup, math skills, good people skills

Driver

• Pick up and drop off competitors as needed
• Valid Driver's License and a clean, reliable vehicle

Door/Security

• Work under direction of Volunteer Coordinator to ensure security of all guests and their possessions inside and outside the ballroom
• Assist Ticket Checkers at entrance to Island Fantasy Ball area during heavy volume entry
• Facilitate movement of guests and competitors within, into and out of the ballroom
• Assist guests in finding their assigned seating
• Enforce rules re: seating, food and beverages, photography and filming
• Patrol all entrances and exits to/from Island Fantasy Ball area
• Secure venue, competitors' change rooms and volunteer room
• Provide personalized service to audience members (could involve greeting guests, answering general questions, smoothing out potentially problematic situations, etc.)
• Assist guests who require special assistance
• Assist guests in finding their assigned seating
• Present a friendly, positive image of Island Fantasy Ball at all times
• Take the initiative to ensure all guests have the best possible experience at Island Fantasy Ball
• Bring any problems to attention of the Island Fantasy Ball Committee or Security personnel, as appropriate
• Qualities for a Door/Security person: preferably experience in a similar position, assertive, authoritative manner and voice, good memory, good team player, courteous, diplomatic, problem-solving ability, quick thinker, has a high level of customer service orientation, high level of diplomacy, courteous, friendly, discreet, able to work independently without direction, good team player, tidy personal appearance, positive attitude, and knowledgeable about Island Fantasy Ball.