Come to Rhythm & Roots,
our sister festival

VOLUNTEERS

Grey Fox is widely known as one of the friendliest and best-organized festivals in the country. In 2002, 2003, 2006 and 2007 we were nominated for IBMA's Event of the Year Award - and won in 2009! - thanks in large part to the spirit, dedication and hard work of the volunteers who come from all over the U.S. and abroad to help make Grey Fox a success.

Working in all phases of the event, volunteers help create a safe, clean and enjoyable weekend for all. They maintain the festival site, greet patrons, sell tickets, provide information, park cars, and direct traffic, assist campers, prepare food, recycle trash, provide emergency services, and supervise children's activities. As a volunteer, you will become a member of our unique volunteer family, and thousands of visitors will benefit from your service. Please read through this entire page, so you’ll be sure volunteering is for you.

1. EVERY VOLUNTEER -- new or returning -- must submit an application EACH YEAR. Priority is given to returning volunteers, on a first-come, first served basis. Priority is next given to those who apply early and to those who are able to arrive early. Be advised that there may be no openings on some crews.
2. You must be able to work a minimum of four days. You should arrive by Wednesday evening, for check-in and scheduling. See crew descriptions for details.
3. Minimum age to volunteer is 18 for most crews.  However, Concession, Family Stage, and Trash/Recycling crews accept responsible 16 and 17 year olds. The minimum age for all other crews is 18. Teens (16 & 17) must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian who must submit a Parental Release Form before assignments can be made. Forms must be signed at Volunteer Check-In by the parent or guardian and the parent's name and contact information must be included in the notes of the online form.  The volunteer coordinator will call the parent prior to crew acceptance.
4. Volunteers are assigned to a crew by the Volunteer Coordinator. Placements are based on festival needs, crew chief recommendations, experience, seniority, and/or suitability to the tasks required. All volunteers must be flexible with regard to scheduling, which frequently requires a morning, afternoon, evening and one "where needed" contribution from everyone. Schedules are arranged by your crew chief. Most volunteers work one 4-6 hour shift each day, depending on the crew. Most crew chiefs will allow you to swap a shift with a fellow crew member, if mutually agreeable.
5. Read crew descriptions carefully and be sure you are willing and able to take on crew duties.
6. We reserve the right to accept only volunteers that reflect our philosophy, values and standards. Volunteering is not always right for us or for you. In some cases, we may suggest you purchase a ticket and enjoy the show.

Additional points to consider:

Most volunteer jobs require some degree of physical activity. Whether it is standing, walking, lifting or other types of exertion, be prepared for some motion, and respect your own limitations. We all work hard, but we want your experience to be a positive one. Plan to be out in the elements during your time with us. Some work areas are tented, but many require protection from sun and/or rain. It can also get chilly at night, so come prepared with gear for all types of weather. You'll be glad you did. Finally, be aware of your own time limitations and the needs of your family. If you want to volunteer and plan to bring your children, arrange for a friend or relative to watch them while you are working. Many families participate by signing up only one parent to volunteer, with the other taking on parental duties. We want your choice about volunteering at Grey Fox to be an informed one, and the right one for both you and our festival family.

Volunteer Appreciation Package:

In return for satisfactory service at the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, our volunteers receive:

1. Admission to the festival.
2. Camping privileges in designated areas only
3. Volunteer tee shirt, to be worn while working
4. Meals Wed night thru Sunday noon (for volunteers only, not other family members)
5. Lots of appreciation from others
6. And a heaping dose of self-satisfaction for a job well done!

To maintain satisfactory volunteer status, volunteers must:

1. Treat patrons, guests and other volunteers courteously at all times.
2. Arrive for your shift on time.
3. Complete all shifts assigned by your Crew Chief.
4. Arrive for your shift completely sober and ready to help.
5. Wear volunteer shirt while on duty.
6. Be a team player. Be ready to give a little extra if needed.
7. Adhere to all other festival guidelines.

Failure to comply with any of these requirements may result in revocation of volunteer status, festival admission and camping privileges.

How to Apply/Register
Everyone who fills out the online form will receive an e-mail letting you know it was received at Grey Fox Volunteer Central.

Returning Volunteers:
Returning Volunteers need to fill out the online form EVERY YEAR, so we know you will be with us. Phone calls and/or e-mails to the Grey Fox Festival office or your previous crew chief do not confirm your volunteer status. Apply early, update your contact information, and let us know your preferred crew. We'll usually send you an e-mail confirming your volunteer status within a couple weeks.

New Applicants:
If you have never volunteered at Grey Fox, completely fill out the online form (be sure and let us know your talents in the essay question!) and click the button at the bottom to send.

ALL VOLUNTEERS must fill out the online form if they wish to be considered for a volunteer position. If you are unable to apply online due to computer issues, you may call the Volunteer Coordinator Caroline Isachsen at (518) 439-1216. To leave a message, state that you are CALLING FOR GREY FOX VOLUNTEERS, and LEAVE YOUR NAME & PHONE NUMBER TWICE & SLOWLY.  However, online applications get the quickest response and are the preferred method. Volunteers are encouraged to email us. 

• Use one form per person. Note age restrictions for volunteering.  Any applicants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a release on site and be sure a parent's name and number is included in the online form notes.
• Answer all questions. Incomplete forms cannot be accepted.
• If you wish to work with a friend/family member, use the notes section to let us know. We'll do our best to accommodate your request.

Follow Up:

ALL online applicants will immediately receive a confirmation e-mail stating that the form has been received. Within 1- 2 weeks, veteran volunteers will receive an e-mail confirming their place on a volunteer crew. Veteran Volunteers are returning volunteers with three (3) or more years experience with Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival.

New applicants (those volunteering for the first time or with fewer than three years experience) may receive a subsequent e-mail or phone call from the Volunteer Coordinator to discuss your expectations and experience, suitability and availability. You may not be assigned to a specific crew, but rather work where/when needed day to day.

Special Note: Based on festival needs, not everyone who applies can be accepted. Some crews have, special requirements, fill up early with veterans, or have no openings. Be sure you read the crew descriptions, and then list 3 different crew preferences, so you have the best chance of being accepted. Be flexible, and we can usually find a place for you.

Questions?

Below is a link to the FAQ about Grey Fox Volunteering.

  Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions

Got more Questions?

If you have additional questions about volunteering, please email them to: Caroline Isachsen, Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival Volunteer Coordinator.
You can also call Caroline at at 518.439.1216.
Or write to Caroline at 22 Bender Lane, Delmar, NY 12054.

Thank you.