Volunteer

FIRST Washington ▸ Volunteer
Top Resources
Top FAQs
  • Do I need experience to be a volunteer?
    Do I need experience to be a volunteer?

    No! You just need to come with a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard to make the kids experience awesome! If there are any volunteer roles that require additional knowledge, training will be provided.

  • Can I sign up for more than one volunteering event?
    Can I sign up for more than one volunteering event?

    Yes! We welcome all the volunteers that are willing to help.

  • Do volunteer events happen throughout the year?
    Do volunteer events happen throughout the year?

    No, FIRST® Washington events typically run between the months of October through April (during the school year). Depending on the program you are volunteering for will determine when you’ll participate.

  • What is the age requirement to volunteer with FIRST Washington?
    What is the age requirement to volunteer with FIRST Washington?

     

    It is dependent on the volunteer role. Here are some of the roles:

     Volunteer Role  What You Do?  How Old Do I Need To Be?
    Judges Help evaluate and give feedback to teams 21 or older
    Referees Help the students play their game safely and fairly 21 or older
    Event Volunteers Help queue teams, field reset, greeters 18 or older

     

  • Will I have to get a background check to become a volunteer?
    Will I have to get a background check to become a volunteer?

    Yes. To ensure the safety of our students, FIRST® Washington requires all volunteers to complete a background check before attending events. Volunteers are not responsible for any costs or fees associated with background checks, but you do have the option to donate those costs back to the organization.

     

    Check out this easy guide to submitting your Youth Protection Program background check! 

Why Volunteer with FIRST Washington?

FIRST Washington offers the most comprehensive STEM and career connected learning in the state and serves students between 6-18 years old. We need volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities to build an inclusive and welcoming learning community. Help us support the STEM innovators of the future!  

Event Volunteering:

Events run from November through March. Event volunteers put on a great experience for students. We have several roles for you.

  • Judges – Help evaluate and give feedback to teams
  • Referees – Help the students play their game safely and fairly
  • Field Crews – Help with setup, run, and tear down of fields and A/V equipment

Coaching or Mentoring:

Teams rely on mentors to assist and educate the team with a range of different tasks.

Skills needed by teams include:

  • Marketing and fundraising
  • Graphic design and communications
  • Team organization and project and financial management
  • Software and hardware engineering

Each of our programs have varying time commitments, but each is extremely rewarding. No previous experience is required to mentor a team.

Most of our team activities run from September through April. Coaches/Mentors can arrange with their team when and how they are able to contribute. Working directly with a group of students is likely the most rewarding experience you will have.

Key Contacts