Volunteer

The DCASE Volunteer program from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) lets people age 18 and older volunteer at some of Chicago's best-known cultural sites, which makes it an option for high school seniors and gap year students who have turned 18. Volunteers act as a welcoming presence for guests from Chicago and beyond. Roles include leading building tours, staffing information points at the Chicago Cultural Center, and helping out at city events. Event work can involve greeting visitors and helping them find their way. Volunteers may serve at places such as Millennium Park, the Chicago Cultural Center and the Taste of Chicago. Volunteers are generally expected to give 6 to 12 hours per month.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. DCASE looks for strong communication and customer service skills, along with knowledge of Chicago, the Loop, the arts and local events. Volunteers must be dependable and on time, and basic computer skills and an email account are required. Interested students apply through the online volunteer application on the DCASE VolunTours website. Questions can be sent to the DCASE VolunTours email contact.