Volunteers helping with Friendship Days setup and cleanup.

How to Volunteer for Friendship Days (Step-by-Step)

ByIsla Bennett

Day-of basics: where to report and what to bring

  • Where to report: Arrive at the event location and check in with the designated team lead or volunteer contact listed in your confirmation details.
  • What to bring: Bring your confirmation email or text, a reusable water bottle, and any role-specific items organizers asked you to bring.
  • What to wear: Choose comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes so you can move safely and stay comfortable.
  • If you are running late: Contact the event lead as soon as you can with your name, expected role, and updated arrival time.

Before you start

  • Check in before you begin working.
  • Review the instructions for your area.
  • Ask questions early if anything is unclear.
  • Take a breath and get oriented. Arriving a few minutes early is still one of the least glamorous but most useful volunteer skills.

Working with kids and teams: simple safety norms

  • Follow the event lead’s instructions: Stay within your assigned area and ask before switching tasks.
  • Respect boundaries and supervision: Be especially mindful around children and group activities, and follow any supervision expectations shared by organizers.
  • Use calm, respectful communication: Good teamwork matters as much as speed, especially during busy moments.
  • Pause if something feels off: If you notice a concern, stop and notify event staff or organizers rather than trying to handle the situation alone.
  • Keep help visible and simple: When in doubt, stay where other volunteers or leads can easily see and support you.

After the event: follow-up and appreciation

  • Share quick feedback: Let organizers know what worked well and what could be smoother next time.
  • Say thank you: A short note of appreciation to the team lead or organizers goes a long way after a full event day.
  • Know your next step: Use Support for practical follow-up questions and Contact for urgent changes or role-specific concerns.
  • Stay in the loop: Future opportunities may be announced on the site, so checking back on Friendship Days is the easiest way to see what is next.

Volunteering does not require a perfect script. It works best when you choose a role that fits, prepare the basics, and let the team guide the details from there.