Learn more about volunteering for the Girls on the Run-Chicago 5K! The event takes place Saturday, May 11, 2024 in Chicago's Grant Park. Register to volunteer here! 

Can I bring my kids? 

The minimum age to volunteer is 16. Each volunteer must have their own individual volunteer registration. Please note: if you are bringing your child to volunteer, you will need to complete a volunteer registration form on their behalf. No volunteers under the age of 16 are permitted without a chaperone.

Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately, no. The 5K is a very busy and chaotic environment and all of our volunteers will need their hands free the entire time during their shifts. 

Will I get a break?

Volunteers can take breaks as needed.  The restrooms are nearby and you are free to eat and or drink at your station.

Will there be restrooms?

Yes, there will be porta-potties onsite at the event. 

I need access to a nursing/lactation station, will one be available?

Yes, there will be a private space available.  It will not have power or refrigeration.

How will I know what time to arrive?

While all volunteer roles are different, to ensure you have ample time to get checked in and get to your assigned meeting place, volunteer arrival times begin at 5:45am.

How will I know where to go?

Approximately 2 weeks prior to the 5K, you will receive an email from info@gotrchicago.org with information specific to your position. This will include your arrival time and other important information about your role.  

How will I know when I’m done?

Your captain will let you know when the task is complete.

Will there be food and drinks?

We will provide light breakfast items, snacks, coffee, and water to volunteers when they check in. You will be at your stations for longer than you will be in the check-in area with access to food, so please make sure to take some snacks with you to your station and drink a bottle of water before you leave for your post! A vendor will also be onsite selling coffee, hot chocolate, and assorted breakfast food items..

BearClaw Coffee will also be onsite selling coffee, hot chocolate, and assorted breakfast food items. You can view their menu here.

Is there a place for me to leave my stuff?

There won’t be a place to leave bags or purses, so please plan to bring minimal items with you, or bring a bag (like a backpack or fanny pack) that you can comfortably wear for the entirety of your shift. 

What should I wear?

You should wear whatever you need to feel comfortable being on your feet for five hours. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and light layering, because it will be cool in the morning when you arrive and warmer by the time you leave. You will receive a 5K volunteer t-shirt the morning of the event to wear. We suggest wearing a base layer that is a t-shirt or tank top that can be easily layered over; or, you can always change your top in the porta-potties. 

What if it rains?

The event will happen rain or shine, unless there is lightning. If there is lightning, our command center will make a call about whether the event is safe to hold. All volunteers and attendees will be notified by text message if the event is canceled for that reason. Please come with your phone fully charged and have your phone with you throughout the event to receive these communications.

Where is parking and public transportation?

The event is located at Arvey Field, which is the southern-most tip of Grant Park, just north of Museum Campus. Here is a map that shows the nearest parking garages. 

If you are taking the CTA, the Van Buren Red Line stop is the nearest Chicago 'L' station. If you are taking the Metra, the Museum Campus/11th Street stop is the nearest.

Our official parking partner for the 5K is Millennium Garages. They’re offering a special event rate of $14 for up to 12 hours for participants and spectators in the Grant Park South Garage. Click here to get the discount.

Located just to the south of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Grant Park South Garage is located along South Michigan Avenue between Jackson Boulevard and Van Buren Street (325 S. Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60604).

 

If you are arriving By Uber/Lyft, provide your driver with the following address: 1211 S Prairie Ave, Chicago, IL 60605. When you arrive, cross Roosevelt to the north and Columbus to the east and walk up to the site. 

 

Regardless of where you arrive, you should expect at least a 15-minute walk to the site. Please factor that into your plans for an on-time arrival.