Volunteer at TIFF

Thank you for your interest in joining over 1,550 generous volunteers who contributed over 54, 000 hours of service to TIFF's many initiatives in 2009. The Festival, as our largest event, needs the most volunteers.

What do Festival Volunteers Do?

Most volunteers work in customer relations at our many theatres:

• greeting customers and answering questions
• directing patrons or industry delegates
• tearing tickets, checking passes
• helping to set up and run various activities

A smaller number help us with administrative or technical activities:

• assembling press kits
• assisting with volunteer registration and data entry
• distributing marketing materials
• working at an information desk
• providing technical set-up or strike support
• welcoming international guests at the airport

Requirements for New and Returning Volunteers

Does this sound like you?

• eighteen years of age or older
• good English-language comprehension and strong communication abilities and skills
• friendly, helpful team player who is supportive and professional when working with a diverse and talented group of volunteers and staff

These are our minimum requirements for Festival volunteers.

How to apply:

• complete the Festival’s online application form (you must do this yourself – no one can complete it for someone else)
• submit a current resumé and telephone contact information for three references
• attend a mandatory volunteer orientation session (dates will take place throughout July and early August 2010)

If your application is accepted, be prepared to:

• commit to a minimum of four shifts (limit one shift per day; individual shift lengths will vary)
• attend all mandatory training sessions (training session dates and times will be emailed to you)
• maintain your Volunteer Hub account (you will receive login information once you're accepted)

Unfortunately, we have more people applying to volunteer than we have positions, so not all applications will be accepted.

Applications are accepted based on:

• the number of volunteer positions available
• the stated availability to volunteer
• applicable skills, knowledge and experience

Registration for Returning Volunteers

Returning volunteers must register again each year; re-acceptance is not automatic. But returning volunteers are invited to re-register before new volunteers.

You are a returning volunteer if you:

• volunteered at the Festival in 2008 or 2009
• are in good standing (with a strong attendance and performance record).

Returning volunteers have been contacted by email and invited to complete your online registration. If you have not been, please contact the Volunteer Office at [email protected]

Thank you again for your interest in volunteering for the Toronto International Film Festival.