The 2008 Florida Film Festival was our most successful yet, and we couldn't have done it without our dedicated volunteers. Each year the Florida Film Festival relies on the help of close to 200 volunteers in every department. Volunteers are needed before and during the 10-day Festival (March 27 - April 5, 2009) for a variety of positions, weekdays and weekends, so you're sure to find a slot that fits your schedule and interests.
Supporting a unique non-profit organization, gaining valuable experience, and meeting others who share an enthusiasm for film is what makes volunteering at the Florida Film Festival all worthwhile. Being able to participate in this event has proven to be a prized opportunity year after year.
Orientation is MANDATORY. Not only is it the only opportunity to sign up for shifts, but it is also the time to learn each position's details, receive important training from the staff, and meet other volunteers before the festival.
Returning Volunteer Orientation: Saturday, February 21, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
New Volunteer Orientation: Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
Volunteer Shifts
Supporting a unique non-profit organization, gaining valuable experience, and meeting others who share an enthusiasm for film is what makes volunteering at the Florida Film Festival all worthwhile. Being able to participate in this event has proven to be a prized opportunity year after year.
Important Guidelines
Orientation and Sign-Up Day
Orientation is MANDATORY. Not only is it the only opportunity to sign up for shifts, but it is also the time to learn each position's details, receive important training from the staff, and meet other volunteers before the festival.
Returning Volunteer Orientation: Saturday, February 21, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
New Volunteer Orientation: Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
Volunteer Shifts
- We provide all volunteers with a T-shirt and a non-transferable badge (more information about badge benefits below). Both MUST be worn during all volunteer shifts.
- All volunteers are PROHIBITED from consuming alcohol or drugs or participating in illegal conduct at any time during a scheduled shift. Failure to comply will result in immediate revocation of privileges and further volunteer opportunities.
- All volunteers must sign a volunteer agreement stating that they understand these and other guidelines.
- Volunteer Badge
- Provides access to festival screenings when you are not scheduled to volunteer and when seating is available. Admission is only after all pass-holders, single ticket-holders, filmmakers, media, and stand-by ticket holders have been seated and you MUST have your badge to gain access.
- Provides access to the Filmmaker Welcome Party.
- Must be worn during all shifts.
- Volunteer T-Shirt
- Identifies you to festival patrons and must be worn during all shifts.
- Volunteer and Staff Appreciation Party
- Our way of thanking everyone who made the festival successful. The 2009 party will be on Wednesday, April 8th. Details and location will be sent to volunteers once they are finalized.
- Enzian Year-Round Benefits (All restrictions on admission passes or membership will apply)
- Volunteers who have contributed fewer than 35 hours of Festival service will receive two (2) "Admit One" passes (valued at $9/ea) for every 5 hours of volunteer service.
- Volunteers who have contributed more than 35 hours of Festival service will receive ten (10) "Admit One" passes (valued at $9/ea) and one (1) Regular level membership to the Enzian Film Society (valued at $60). This membership and corresponding member benefits apply only to the volunteer who earned it.
Volunteer Shift Descriptions
All shifts are based on teams and most will be located at Enzian Theater, Enzian's festival office (Point 100), and Regal Winter Park. Please read below to familiarize yourself with the different kinds of opportunities available.
| Team |
Shift Dates |
Skills Required |
Sample Duties |
| Clone Quality | Before Festival |
Attention to detail |
Pre-screening films for technical glitches |
| Marketing |
Before & During Festival |
Organization, Courteous and cheerful demeanor, Attention to Detail |
Assembling collateral, Clerical work, Distribution |
| Info |
Before & During Festival |
Patience, Courteous and cheerful demeanor, Attention to detail |
Educating festival guests about films, schedule, and general information; Providing "first impressions" to festival guests; Surveying guests |
| Filmmaker |
Before & During Festival |
Courteous and cheerful demeanor | Checking in filmmakers, Familiarizing filmmakers with events and surrounding area |
| Theater |
During Festival |
Courteous and cheerful demeanor, Organization |
Taking tickets, counting attendees, counting ballots, post-film clean up |
| Events |
Before & During Festival |
Able & willing to lift heavy items, Ability to work well in large crowds, Assertive yet courteous demeanor |
Setting up and breaking down special events and parties; lifting and/or moving tables, wine, tents, etc. |
| On-Site Runner |
Before & During Festival |
MUST be at least 21 years old, Good driving record, Use own vehicle |
Run errands between venues, Mileage will be reimbursed |
| Driver |
During Festival |
Courteous and cheerful demeanor, Organization, Strong communication skills, Attention to detail, MUST be at least 25 years old, Good driving record, Professionalism & Dependability |
Ensuring festival jurors and special guests are on time to assigned screenings by picking them up at their hotel and transporting them to the different venues. Drivers are solely responsible for jurors' on-time arrival as films cannot begin until all jurors are present. **If you are interested in being a driver, positions will be offered at Orientation via a quick interview*** |
What you can expect as a volunteer:
- You will have a rewarding experience while being treated with courtesy and respect.
- Although you will work hard, you can expect to have fun.
- You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how a festival runs and learn more about the entertainment business.
- You'll work with a team of professionals that enjoy movies just as much as you do.
- You'll make new friends and connections.
- You'll have the opportunity to view films before they are released (as well as some that may never be released).
What we expect from volunteers:
- We expect you to arrive for your scheduled shift on time, dressed appropriately, and ready to work.
- We expect you to abide by our rules of conduct, both on and off duty. Remember, you officially represent the Florida Film Festival.
- We expect you to become familiar with the information in the Florida Film Festival Program and Volunteer Handbook.
- We expect you to treat everyone with respect. Friendliness and a smile can often make someone's day.
- If you are unable to make a shift or are running late to a shift, we expect you to contact the Assistant Volunteer Coordinator immediately so we may ensure the festival runs smoothly.
- We expect you to work to your fullest capacity but allow yourself time to enjoy the festival.
