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.

Yes! When you log into your FIRST Inspires Volunteer account, you can search for events based on program, date, and location.

You are welcome to sign up for as many events as you wish to volunteer for.

Below are steps for creating an account and signing up!

Click HERE for steps to sign up!

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.

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

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! 

It depends on the volunteer role you’ve signed up for. Here are some examples (these are approximate times, some of the times might change based on need and venue):

In general, as a coach, volunteer, or team member you should be meeting with your team at least several times per week during the build and competition season (January – April), many teams meet on weekends if necessary. Many mature teams also meet throughout the school year, and some compete in off-season events during the summer. You, your family, and your available free time can decide together how much time you can devote to the program. Like any sport or club, the time you invest in helping your team will add to your team’s success.

In general, as a coach, volunteer, or team member you should meet with your team at least once per week during the build and competition season (September – April). Many mature teams also meet throughout the school year, and some compete in off-season events during the summer. You and your family can decide together how much time you can devote to the program. Like any sport or club, the time you invest in helping your team will add to your team’s success.

Absolutely, the easiest way to join a FIRST® Tech Challenge program is to start your own team. Ask your principal if your school has a team; if not, encourage your principal to identify a teacher who would be willing to start a team with your help as a team volunteer. Please let your principal know that FIRST® is a collaborative partnership with private industry professionals and educators to inspire young people towards STEM.

If a school-based team is not a possibility, you may find another youth-focused organization that can help. Scouts, 4-H and other clubs may also support FIRST® teams.

In general, as a coach, volunteer, or team member you should meet with your team one to two times per week during the build and Festival season from August through May. Like any sport or club, the time you invest in helping your team will add to your team’s success.

Something comfortable! FIRST® Washington will provide you with a Volunteer t-shirt, but make sure you wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be standing/walking a lot!

Mentors are individuals from all backgrounds and disciplines who work with students to share their knowledge and guide them through the season. Many Mentors contribute on a weekly basis during the program season, or support the team with subject matter expertise on an as needed basis. Teams may have additional or more specialized roles or combine roles as needed.

Mentors are individuals from all backgrounds and disciplines who work with students to share their knowledge and guide them through the season. Many mentors contribute on a weekly basis during the program season or support the team with subject matter expertise on an as-needed basis. Teams may have additional or more specialized roles or combine roles as needed.