VOLUNTEER AT 2009 VIFF

If you would like to be notified when we post our Volunteer Form for the VIFF 2009 (form to be available August 8), please email viff@viff.org with the subject VOLUNTEER IN 2009.

PLEASE READ THE FAQs FOR INFORMATION ON VOLUNTEERING:

Volunteer FAQs

Q: Where can I fill out the volunteer form?
A: Once the form becomes available in August 2009, fill it out online or at the office during reception hours (Monday to Friday 9am-5pm). We would appreciate if you waited until after 10am to come down as the first hour of the day is particularly busy.

Q: How many hours do I have to commit to?
A: There is a minimum commitment of 32 hours.

Q: What if I volunteer and then can't make my scheduled shifts?
A: We would appreciate knowing that you are unable to complete your 32-hour commitment as soon as you make this decision. We understand that circumstances arise and situations change, and the more notice you give us, the easier it will be to replace you. If you have not yet been contacted by someone at the VIFF about scheduling, please email volunteer@viff.org [DO NOT EMAIL UNTIL SEPT 2009] to let us know you are no longer available. If you drop out after the scheduling process is complete with no notice to your supervisor, you will be barred from volunteering at future events. If you have already received your volunteer pass, it must be returned to the VIFF.

Q: When will I hear from someone at the VIFF?
A: Many departments do not schedule their volunteers until close to Festival time. Please do not call the office or the Volunteer Coordinator if you have not been contacted. If we reach our volunteer quota, we will let you know that your application is in the "reserve" pile. Otherwise, a department coordinator will be in touch.

Q: What if I am offered shifts in a department that I don't want to work in?
A: Please do not indicate that you are willing to work in a department unless you are actually willing to work there. If you change your mind between filling out the form and receiving a call from your supervisor, please be honest and let them know you are no longer interested in volunteering in that department. In that circumstance, we cannot guarantee that you will be re-scheduled in 2009.

Q: Can I complete my hours before the Festival?
A: Most volunteer hours occur during the VIFF, October 1-16, 2009. We expect all our volunteers to commit to shifts during the Festival. We do everything possible to ensure that all volunteers have time to see films.

Q: When/where can I get my pass and Program Catalogue?
A: Passes and Program catalogues will be handed out by the department in which you are scheduled. You will be notified when these are available. It takes time to put together all the volunteer packages. Please do not call the office asking where yours is. If you purchase a Program catalogue, you will not be reimbursed when you receive your complimentary volunteer guide.