Volunteering
Volunteers are essential to the success of our road race. Annually, over 120 volunteers helped to make the 4th of July Road Race event safe and fun for all. Below are some frequently asked questions that may be helpful as you consider joining us to volunteer this year. We appreciate your support!
HOW DO I SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER?
You and any friends and family can register at the same time using the "VOLUNTEER" link in the navigation above, and you can indicate your assignment preferences by selecting one of the available options. Below are some details about each role.
WHAT DOES EACH OF THE VOLUNTEER ROLES ENTAIL?
Registration: Volunteers interested in this role may be assigned one or more of the following tasks: greeting and offering directions; handing out race bibs, shirts and registering participants the morning of the event. Check-in time will be emailed.
Flagging & Traffic Control: Keeping runners safe and moving in the proper direction is the main task of this role. Depending on the location you are assigned, you may be responsible for temporarily stopping and/or slowing traffic. Orange flags and safety vests are provided. Please note that you may be asked to drive to your assigned route location. Check-in time will be emailed.
Water Stops: Hydration of the runners is a critical safety component of the day. We have 4 water stops on the course and provide water at the finish line. Volunteers are needed to fill drink cups and distribute drinks to runners. This volunteer opportunity fills up fast. Check-in time will be emailed.
Fun Run/Walk: With hundreds of excited kids and families joining us for this part of the day, it’s important to efficiently move folks to the starting area, and after the race we need help handing out prizes and popsicles. Check-in time will be emailed.
General Volunteers: If you are willing to help out where needed, please sign up for “I’m not picky.” This role can entail anything from assisting with the awards, handing out water in the park or giving directions. Check-in time for each role varies, so please provide your desired time when you sign up.
CAN I BRING A FRIEND?
Absolutely! Friends and family members are welcome! Children under 13 require an adult chaperone to participate.
WHERE DO I GO THE MORNING OF THE RACE?
All volunteers should report to the Memorial Park on the corner of Bow Street and Park Street the morning of the race; arrival time depends on the task and will be emailed to you.
HOW DO I GET TO MY VOLUNTEER SPOT?
You may drive, ride your bike or walk depending on distance from the town hall. Arriving early and checking in at the volunteer table guarantees that you’ll have ample time to receive directions and commute to locations farther out on the course.
HOW IS RUNNERS' SAFETY MONITORED IF SOME OCCURANCE ON THE COURSE REQUIRES RACE STAFF OR MEDICAL ATTENTION?
Freeport Public Safety is part of the planning for the race and assigns extra staff during the event. Also, we have onsite emergency medical care. If you see a runner who needs medical assistance, use the nearest cell phone to call 911 and give them your location. Freeport Rescue will arrive promptly to assist the runner.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN THE EVENT IS OVER AND MY ROLE IS FINISHED?
We always have a "sweep" vehicle that travels behind the last runner. When this vehicle passes by, you are done for the day. At that time, leave the orange safety cones at your site, as well as any other race support gear such as cups and tables, and the support crew will pick them up. Please return your vest and flags to the volunteer table at Memorial park.
