First Time Volunteers – Please fill out our Volunteer Interest Form.

(NOTE: The Volunteer Interest Form will not sign you up for a shift.  See our Current Volunteer Opportunities page to see and sign up for a current need.)

Are you new to the idea of volunteering with us?  Perfect!  Don’t be shy.  We’re pretty easy people to work with.  Please fill out our Volunteer Interest Form after you get the information you need from the following and we’ll work with you finding your best fit.

Quick Links

• NEW THIS YEAR: Background Checks!
• Why We Need You
• Where You Can Help
• CURRENT VOLUNTEER NEEDS/OPPORTUNITIES (Opens New Page)
• See for Yourself
• Our Values
• Self Report Hours (Opens New Page)
• Your Service Record (Opens New Page)
• FAQ/Links (Opens New Page)
• Volunteer Spotlight (Opens New Page)
• 2017 Volunteer Year in Review (Opens New Page)
• Volunteer Contact

NEW THIS YEAR: BACKGROUND CHECKS

Starting November 2017, we will require background checks on all volunteers that will overnight with us and on all shuttle drivers – either at a camp location or while on tour.  If you are volunteering for a shift but not staying the night this process will not be required.  WE will cover the cost, but it takes 3 to 5 days to turn around so please allow ample time for this to happen. This check includes National and Local Criminal and Sex Offender database searches by a third-party vendor.  We spend about $20 to process your request and we will invest that in you, your time, and most importantly our students – so we ask that you please follow through on your volunteer commitment.  It will be good for 2 years of service with us.

Shuttle Drivers will also need to supply a clear photo copy or photo of the front and back of their driver’s license.  Our insurance agency will seek an MVR (aka driving record report).

Please contact Keith at Volunteer@AscendPerformingArts.org to start that process if this policy will apply to you.

Why We Need YOU

We could not exist without the tireless effort of our many volunteers – people just like you. Team up with other friends, fans, and alumni to help support the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps (BK DBC), Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble (BKPE), and other Ascend Performing Arts programs and events.  Volunteering will give you the opportunity to be a close observer of the development of a high quality program.

Volunteering can work with anyone’s schedule at any time of year, whether you are able to donate an hour, a day, a week, or more of your time.  You don’t have to be an expert; the majority of our volunteering opportunities do not require special skills other than your time and desire to help.  For helping with any of our programs and events, we ask that our volunteers be passionate and friendly. Even minors can be accommodated in some roles but might require a parental consent from.  If you enjoy leadership and organization, we’d be happy to talk about finding that role for you.

Why should only members of our programs reap the rewards of life-long friendships? Volunteers, too, become the best of friends – friends, and family for life.  Is there hard, physical labor?  For some positions, yes.  Are there long work hours?  It’s possible in some cases.  The “thank you’s” from the members make your time and efforts very worthwhile!  There is deep gratification knowing how you have helped young people achieve their dreams and goals.

Where You Can Help

We can use your help at all levels – from the Ascend Performing Arts organization down through each program and event we offer.  The links below will detail many ways for you to volunteer with us.  Do you have an idea that’s not listed?  Perfect!  Contact us!

• Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps – Year round activities with heavy focus during summer months.
• Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble – Indoor program builds from November through April Championships.
• Ascend Events – For the many drum corps shows, marching festivals, and clinics we run.

Current Opportunities

THIS LINK will take you to our page of volunteer openings.  We encourage self service online signups, but contact Keith if you need help or have questions.

See for Yourself

Join the Ascend Performing Arts family and see, feel, and know the rewards for yourself.

Our Values

We wish everyone to have a rewarding experience.  That includes our volunteers, staff, members, students, to everyone involved.  We expect everyone to sweat a bit from time to time and we likewise expect laughter from time to time.  Our organization values Integrity, Collaboration, and Excellence.  Do what’s right.  Work with others.  Strive for the best.

Volunteer Contact

If you need any assistance please contact the Ascend Performing Arts Volunteer Coordinator.

Keith Huffman
volunteer@ascendperformingarts.org