General Program Support

General Support Volunteer Role

General Support volunteers attend First Descents programs to assist the staff and participants in any way possible. They are the people working in the background to ensure that things run smoothly for everyone at the program. The majority of program responsibilities take place in the kitchen – dishes, dishes, and more dishes! In addition, volunteers will assist with airport shuttles, grocery shopping, cooking and kitchen cleanup, general home tidiness, and anything else that needs to be done to keep the program running smoothly.

A Sampling of General Support Duties:

• Dishes, dishes, and you guessed it, more dishes! Remember how much clean up is required after Thanksgiving dinner? That’s every meal on an FD program.
• Maintain bathrooms and common spaces: wipe down countertops with an antibacterial agent, replenish soap, hand towels, toilet paper and remove trash as needed.
• Help run shuttles to and from the airport and the river/rock/ocean.
• Participate and be present for the duration of the program.

As a volunteer, your number one priority should be the participants! Going kayaking, climbing, or surfing can be one of the perks, and Lead Staff will make an effort to get you out to the activity. Your focus should be on providing the best possible experience for the participants at the program.

The Volunteer and Staff Team

Depending on the type of program the number of staff and volunteers may differ. Here are some of the staff and volunteers you may have on your program:

• 1-2 First Descents Lead Staff
• 1-2 First Descents Chefs
• Medical Volunteer
• Volunteer Photographer or Media
• General Support Volunteers
• Outfitters

All volunteers are expected to show up for the week ready to support the Lead Staff in facilitating the safest and most impactful experience possible to participants. Volunteering requires long hours, LOTS of dishes, hard work, and does not guarantee participation in any of the activities. 

First Descents will provide meals, lodging, and accommodations for all volunteers. Volunteers are responsible for their own transport to and from the program location.