Volunteer for WB4F

If you would like to make a difference to a family in need in Western Massachusetts and have the time to give and enthusiasm to share, then volunteering is the perfect opportunity!

For more info, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Alex Santiago, at alexs@foodbankwma.org. View and sign up for all shifts on our website: https://foodbankwma.galaxydigital.com/need/

Volunteer Shifts for Sunday, September 22

Sweep Riders (5) – Experienced road cyclists needed to stay at the back of the pack to make sure everyone gets through okay, and alerts water stops that all cyclists have gone by. Will carry some emergency gear. GPS recommended, but not required. Cell phone required to contact route patrol & 911 if needed. Will help take down route arrows.

Route Patrol Vehicles (8) – Drive assigned route with repair gear & extra snacks, ensuring cyclists are safe, able to continue, and know where they’re going. Must have room in or on the vehicle (using a bike rack) for up to 2 cyclists, plus bikes, in the event of an emergency. The Food Bank can help provide a bike rack if needed. Must have a working cell phone to contact designated Food Bank staff, other volunteers, and/or 911 as needed. Drivers may ride alone or bring a passenger to help them navigate. Some vehicles will be asked to take a Radio Operator along as well.

Parking Attendants (5) – Direct vehicles to the proper parking locations during our Will Bike 4 Food event and monitor parking to allow for maximum space efficiency. This opportunity is great for people who are comfortable giving directions and being firm with people who are not following directions.

Event Floater/Water Stop Runners (2) – Restock water stop supplies during the Will Bike 4 Food ride and help with other miscellaneous event needs. Volunteers must have a vehicle to travel to water stops. This position requires frequent communication with our event coordinators.

After Party Ticket Sales/ ID Checkers (5) – Check cyclists back in after their ride and sell tickets to participants' friends and family who wish to take part in the after party. Tickets are $20 per person. WB4F participants do not need to purchase after party tickets. Lunch and 1 beer, cider or glass of wine is included in the purchase of an after-party ticket (21 plus only with valid ID).

Adult volunteers need to check IDs and verify cyclists are 21+ before giving them their ticket for free beer. Cyclists 21+ will receive a wristband. Cyclists may not get beer tickets for other riders. Volunteers need to check IDs, put wristbands on, and mark the wristbands as people receive their complimentary beverage.

Registration Table (6) – Greet and sign in Will Bike 4 Food cyclists who have pre-registered or are signing up the day of the event. You will be responsible for accurately tracking attendees, properly handling money that’s turned in, distributing/recording bib numbers, collecting waivers, and providing cue sheets/route updates.

Cyclist Support (2) – Pin bib numbers onto cyclists after they check in for the ride and assist cyclists with parking their bikes in the bike racks when needed. When cyclists aren't in need of assistance, volunteers will cheer for participants at the start and finish line.

Breakfast Service (1) – Prep and set up breakfast for Will Bike 4 Food, including bagels, coffee & fruit for the earliest arriving cyclists. You will also be responsible for maintaining snack & drink levels throughout the first half of the event, as well as keeping the area clean and clear of trash. You must be able to stand during the shift and carry at least 25 lbs.

Beer Pourer (2) – Pour beer, cider, and wine to attendees of the after party. Any tips will be donated to the Food Bank to provide healthy meals to neighbors experiencing food insecurity. Some lifting involved. Must be 21+ years of age.

Water Stop Volunteers (20) – Cheer on cyclists and help them with water and snacks. We will have water and snacks and a table at the site, as well as access to a bathroom. Please bring your own lawn chair.

Clean Up (6) – Help clean up after the event. Volunteers will break down food and merch stations, pick up trash, and ensure that we are leaving the space as clean as we found it.

Water Stop Pickup (3) – Drive to assigned water stop and pick up all supplies. Volunteers will bring the supplies back to the Hatfield Lions Club Pavilion by 5:30 pm. This volunteer opportunity involves heavy lifting, and volunteers must have a vehicle (ideally a truck or van).