Volunteer FAQ

How old do you have to be to volunteer?

There are volunteer opportunities for almost all ages. Children age 6 and older can be elves, assisting Santa and offering assistance to guests. Children age 10 and above can help clear tables, gather trays, etc. From age 12, they can work as table hosts, replenishing drinks, offering sweetener and cream, clearing tables, etc. In the kitchen, teens can work with their parents from age 14 and independently from age 16. Serving line volunteers must be 18 years or older.

What is the time commitment?

Volunteers are scheduled for 2-hour shifts and you may sign up for one or multiple shifts. There are shifts available on Christmas Day as well as days leading up to and days after Christmas. Just be sure to set aside time to eat. It’s a delicious meal!

How do I sign up to volunteer?

CFD uses SignUpGenius to schedule volunteers. Click Here to view available shifts.

Do volunteers get to eat dinner too?

Absolutely! In addition to dinner on Christmas Day, the talented cooks prepare a delicious lunch for volunteers who set up, decorate, and work in the kitchen on December 23 and 24.

Where do I go when I arrive at the Menard Center?

Park on the back (north) side of the building and come in the back (north) entrance. On Christmas Day, if parking isn’t available in the back, park where you can find a place. Each day, you’ll need to stop at the Volunteer Table inside the back (north) entrance to sign in, sign a waiver form and get a name tag. You will then be directed to your work location. Please sign in each day you volunteer. Waivers are only needed the first day you are there. Please be sure to sign out when you leave. Please leave valuables at home as there is no secure storage for volunteers.

How will I know what to do when I volunteer?

More information will be provided when you sign up on SignUpGenius. Then, when it gets closer to the event the lead volunteer will contact you or after you check in, see the lead volunteer and they will make assignments based on your gifts or talents or preferences. Should you have any questions while volunteering, the lead volunteers will be wearing buttons identifying them as a Lead or Board Member.

What should I wear to volunteer?

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. On Christmas Day, feel free wear something festive, like a red or green top, a festive costume (as long as its comfortable and doesn’t inhibit movement or vision), or a Santa hat. We ask that volunteers refrain from wearing church specific clothing/swag. We want to keep our event Christ focused instead of focusing on specific churches. Our hope is that this will help everyone feel welcome.