Frequently Asked Questions
from Volunteers
- Q: Who should volunteer?
- A: Each club that sends RYLA students is asked to send volunteers. In addition, we welcome volunteers from other clubs as well. No prior experience is needed!
- Q: How long is the time commitment for volunteers?
- A: It depends on which time block(s) you choose… Time blocks vary from about 3 to 6 hours (8 hours for Night Monitors). You should also plan for commuting time, as well as parking and check-in.
- Q: What if I need to leave early?
- A: We ask that you stay for the full time-block(s) that you've signed up for, to help ensure that the RYLA program runs smoothly. (Emergencies will of course be accommodated.)
- Q: Can I volunteer for more than one time slot?
- A: Absolutely! Many volunteers sign up for more than one time block… in fact, you can even sign up for multiple days.
- Q: Can I specify my preference for job role?
- A: We will do our best to assign you to your preferred volunteer role, however limited resources may require us to make scheduling adjustments.
- Q: Do volunteers have to be Rotarians? - i.e., can my spouse or partner help? What about a friend?
- A: Spouses/partners and even friends are welcome. Adults only.
- Q: Do I need to have any particular skills, or CPR certification, or anything like that?
- A: No special skills are needed. (However, if you do have special skills, you may want to mention that in the notes when you sign up.)
- Q: Is there any kind of training provided?
- A: If you're a first-time volunteer, you'll most likely be given a support role, which includes on-the-job training.
There is a required zoom orientation/training session held before RYLA.
All Session Leaders must be trained prior to RYLA Weekend.- Q: Do I need to be CORI certified?
- A: Yes. After you sign up, you will be sent information to initiate the submission of a CORI check.
- Q: Where is RYLA held?
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A: Most sessions will be held indoors at Hammond Campus Center (160 North Street) when at Fitchburg State University, or outside in the quad. Other venues as described in the Schedule.
PARKING is free and conveniently located. Look for RYLA signs. - Q: Will I need to pay for parking?
- A: No, free parking is available.
- Q: Do I need to check in somewhere?
- A: YES - All volunteers must check in at the information desk inside the front door of the venue. This is very important as it allow us to confirm any last minute scheduling changes and for us to answer any questions you might have.
- Q: Do I need to get there early?
- A: Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your shift, which should be early enough to park, check in, and get to your building/classroom prior to the session start time.
- Q: What should I wear?
- A: We encourage volunteers to wear RYLA gear, items with the Rotary logo, royal blue, comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes, in that order of preference. Please do NOT wear white, sky blue or rainbow tye-die as those colors are reserved for our youth leaders. Casual attire is fine! Note: some activities are outside. Everyone is invited to the closing ceremony.
- Q: What about food?
- A: If you volunteer multiple shifts, you may dine with us and the students.
- Q: If I’m volunteering for more than one day, are there overnight accommodations?
- A: For volunteers that assist for multiple days, you may be eligible and may request overnight accommodations through the online signup.
- Q: Will my club get any kind of credit for this?
- A: YES! This counts as a Youth Service activity, and it's a great thing to put on your club's Presidential Citation application!
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