Volunteer Training and Orientation
Quick answer: Every volunteer for the St. Pete Marathon goes through an orientation before race day, either virtually or in person. Orientation covers your specific role, where to be, what time to arrive, and who to contact if something comes up. Nobody is expected to figure things out on the fly.
- Key Takeaways
- Orientation happens before race day, not on race morning itself.
- You can attend virtually or in person, depending on what works for your schedule.
- Orientation covers your role, your location, your timing, and who to ask for help.
- Group volunteers can often attend orientation together.
What Orientation Actually Covers
Orientation is where the general idea of volunteering turns into a specific plan. You will learn exactly where to show up, what time your shift starts, what your role involves step by step, and who your point of contact is on race day if you have a question or a problem comes up. This is also where you will get any specific instructions tied to your role, whether that is how to safely direct runners as a course marshal or how to keep a water station running smoothly during peak traffic.
Virtual or In Person, Your Choice
We understand not everyone can make an in person session work with their schedule. Orientation is offered both virtually and in person, so you can choose whichever format actually fits your life. Either way, you will walk away with the same information and the same level of preparation.
Why This Step Matters
A marathon has a lot of moving parts happening at once. Orientation is what keeps race morning from feeling chaotic for volunteers. You will know your role cold before you ever show up, which means less stress for you and a smoother experience for the runners depending on you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does orientation take?
Orientation sessions are focused and efficient, typically covering everything you need in under an hour, whether attended virtually or in person.
Do I have to attend orientation to volunteer?
Yes. Every volunteer attends orientation, either virtually or in person, so everyone arrives on race day fully prepared for their role.
Can my volunteer group attend orientation together?
In most cases, yes. Let us know when you sign up that you are volunteering as a group and we will try to schedule you together.
What if I cannot make either the virtual or in person session offered?
Reach out to us directly through the volunteer form and we will work with you to find an option that fits.
Ready to sign up? See How to Volunteer for the St. Pete Marathon.