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Support the Running Community

Volunteer

Volunteers help make B.A.A. events special, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and support to their roles.

Next Race: Boston Marathon

Applications Open in December for the Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon features nearly 10,000 volunteers. Applications will open in December within Athletes’ Village.

Volunteer Code of Conduct

Review what's expected of B.A.A. Volunteers

Vol of Fame

Honoring volunteers who have reached the milestone of 15 or more years of service to the Boston Marathon.

Volunteer Applications

Learn when and how you can volunteer to support upcoming B.A.A. events.

Volunteer registration for the Boston Marathon opens in December within Athletes’ Village. Additional information can be found within the Boston Marathon Volunteer pages: Information for Volunteers and Volunteer Assignment Details.

Volunteer registration for the Boston 5K opens in December within Athletes’ Village. Additional information can be found within the Boston 5K Volunteer page.

Volunteer registration for the B.A.A. 10K opens in the spring within Athletes’ Village. Additional information can be found within the B.A.A. 10K Volunteer page.

Volunteer registration for the Boston Half opens in August within Athletes’ Village. Additional information can be found within the Boston Half Volunteer page.

Volunteer Expectations

Review the B.A.A.'s Code of Conduct and Rights and Responsibilities for Volunteers.

Through every interaction you have with each of our constituents, as a B.A.A. volunteer, you play a powerful role in fostering a sense of belonging and community. All volunteers are expected to treat every person you come in to contact with, with dignity, respect and care.

  • Conduct yourself as a friendly, responsible, informative, and respectful community representative of the B.A.A. to ensure a positive experience for all race participants and spectators.
  • Treat everyone with respect and dignity. The B.A.A. is committed to creating diverse, equitable and inclusive event experiences.
  • Volunteers must not discriminate against any individual or group based on their race, ethnic background, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
  • The use of profane, insulting, harassing, or otherwise offensive language while volunteering will not be tolerated.
  • Possession or use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco products and other prohibited items are not permissible during your volunteer shift at any B.A.A. event.
  • Weapons are prohibited at all times at B.A.A. events.
  • Follow the instructions of your Team Captain, Event Staff, Race Officials and Public Safety, unless these instructions violate this Code of Conduct.
  • Volunteers must be 18 years or older on the date of their assignment.
  • Volunteers must wear the uniform provided to them by the B.A.A. at all times during their shift.
  • Volunteers may not bring pets (other than service animals), children, or guests to their assignment.
  • Volunteers must carry a government-issued photo I.D. at all times during their assignment and should be prepared to present it to public safety officials and security personnel upon request.
  • All bags are subject to search by public safety officials and security personnel.
  • Theft of B.A.A. property is prohibited, and proper authorities will be notified if theft occurs.
  • Do not bring valuables with you to your assignment. The B.A.A. is not responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen items.
  • Taking photos/videos of or with professional athletes during your assignment is strictly prohibited.

Volunteers who violate the B.A.A.’s Volunteer Code of Conduct and Expectations may be asked to leave their assignment and may not be eligible to volunteer at future B.A.A. events.

Report any incident that may violate this Volunteer Code of Conduct to proper B.A.A. personnel including your Team Captain or B.A.A. Staff on-site. Behavioral incidents can also be reported to volunteer@baa.org.

B.A.A. Volunteers have a defined set of rights and responsibilities. The relationship between the B.A.A. and its volunteers is a mutual agreement. The support of our volunteers allows us to produce events and programs in the community.

B.A.A. volunteers project the mission and spirit of the organization and are expected to follow the rules outlined in the B.A.A. Volunteer Code of Conduct and Expectations. The B.A.A. strives to provide a rewarding and fulfilling experience for its volunteers, participants and community members.

On behalf of the B.A.A. Board of Governors, staff, and our thousands of participants, we are extraordinarily grateful for your service.

Your Rights

  • The right to feel valued: Volunteering is a significant commitment that you choose to make. In return, you have the right to feel that your time and contribution – however long you’ve volunteered and whatever your task – is valued.
  • The right to information about your volunteer role: You have the right to know the logistics of your volunteer position. Volunteers are encouraged to ask questions before, during, and after their assignment if any details are unclear.
  • The right to discuss your volunteer role: You have the right to talk to the B.A.A. Volunteer Team to discuss ways you might be able to shift your role or take on another position.
  • The right to feel safe: You have the right to be informed of any potential risks and safety procedures to ensure your physical and emotional well-being.
  • The right to leave: If for any reason you no longer feel safe or comfortable within your role or surroundings, you have the right to leave. Please follow up with the B.A.A. to share your concerns.

Your Responsibilities 

  • The responsibility to honor the organization’s investment in you: The B.A.A. invests in our volunteers. We ask that you honor our investment by being a respectful representative of the B.A.A.
  • The responsibility to honor the community around you: You have the responsibility to foster an inclusive environment with fellow volunteers, participants, spectators, and to treat each of these stakeholders with dignity, respect, and care.
  • The responsibility to be a team player: You have the responsibility to fulfill your volunteer duties to the best of your ability, provide ample notice if you are unable to attend, and cooperate with on-site authorities.
  • The responsibility to take care of yourself: You have the responsibility of preparing for your assignment and being accountable for your own well-being.
  • The responsibility to communicate your needs: Don’t hesitate to let the B.A.A. Volunteer Team or team captain know if you feel you need additional tools, training, or support.