VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

MISC.

EVENTS

1. Volunteers are required to complete and sign the VOLUNTEER WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY. 
2. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age for most events.  Some events may not be suitable for volunteers under the age of 18.  SIFF and volunteers are required to comply with all applicable New York State labor laws. 
3. Volunteer shifts will be a minimum of 4 hours. For larger or multi‑day events, shifts may extend up to 8 hours. Breaks will be provided in accordance with New York State labor laws.   
4. Volunteers must be able to self-report. SIFF does not cover Uber, Lyft, or Taxi Rides to or from events.Volunteers are required to arrive at their scheduled time. If conflicts arise and you are unable to make your scheduled shift it is important that you contact the Volunteer Coordinator or designated person as soon as possible, (24 hours in advance notice preferred) allowing them enough time to find a suitable replacement. If you’re running late, please call or text the Volunteer Coordinator or designated person immediately.     
5. SIFF does not cover lodging expenses.  
6. SIFF will provide a designated breakroom with water and light snacks during events. Volunteers may bring a packed lunch or purchase food from nearby businesses. Please check with the Volunteer Coordinator for any available coupons or discounts from local partners.
7. Volunteers are required to check in and check out with the Volunteer Coordinator or designated person before and after their shift.  Volunteers must not leave their position without securing appropriate coverage.
8. Volunteers are required to wear all‑black attire unless prior approval for an alternative is granted. Clothing must be clean, free of rips or tears, and may not display logos, graphics, political messaging, or offensive language. Attire must provide appropriate coverage and maintain a professional appearance.Volunteers should wear clean, closed‑toe, comfortable footwear suitable for extended periods of standing and walking.
9. Individuals attending any SIFF event as guests, rather than as volunteers, are requested not to wear SIFF volunteer–identifiable apparel or badges. All guests are expected to conduct themselves responsibly while attending SIFF events.
10. Volunteers will receive a volunteer ID Badge which must be worn during the entirety of the shift. 
11. Volunteers are asked to not contact the media or respond to press inquiries.  Please direct media personnel to the SIFF President or designated Public Relations Coordinator.
12. All medical emergencies and injuries must be reported to the Volunteer Coordinator, any SIFF Board Member, or the SIFF President immediately. If paramedic assistance is required, first dial 911, then direct another volunteer to notify the Volunteer Coordinator, any SIFF Board Member, or the SIFF President at once.  A first-aid kit will be available on-site.  An Accident Report must be completed in all circumstances.
13. Smoking, including e-cigarettes and other vape substances, is allowed in designated areas only.  If possible, volunteers are asked to not smoke or vape in the direct presence of patrons and guests.  Volunteering while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is grounds for immediate expulsion.
14. SIFF does not supply childcare and requests that volunteers not bring children to events during their shift.
15. SIFF is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items. Please leave all valuables either at home or locked in your vehicle.
16. SIFF is not responsible for parking, however, a designated parking area will be available for volunteers at most events.  Volunteers are not permitted to park in patron, guest or VIP lots.  A map indicating designated parking locations will be provided to all volunteers.
     

VOLUNTEER ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND AGREEMENT  
I, the undersigned, hereby voluntarily offer my services as a volunteer for the Syracuse International Film Festival (hereinafter "SIFF" or "the Festival").

UNDERSTANDING OF VOLUNTEER STATUS
I acknowledge and understand that:

1. Unpaid Position: My volunteer service is unpaid, and I will not receive any monetary compensation, wages, salary, or benefits for my time and efforts.
2. Provided Amenities: SIFF will provide light snacks and water during my volunteer shifts, for which I am grateful.
3. No Employment Relationship: I am not an employee, agent, or representative of SIFF, and no employment relationship is created by my volunteer service.

ASSUMPTION OF RISK
I understand that volunteering at the Festival may involve certain risks, including but not limited to:  physical exertion, interaction with the public, working in various weather conditions, handling equipment, and other activities associated with festival operations. I voluntarily assume all risks associated with my participation as a volunteer.

RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
In consideration of being permitted to volunteer for SIFF, I hereby:

1. Release and discharge SIFF, its organizers, directors, officers, employees, sponsors, partners, venues, and all affiliated parties from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising from any injury, loss, damage, or harm to my person or property that may occur during my volunteer service, whether caused by negligence or otherwise.
   
   
2. Waive any right to bring any legal action or claim against SIFF for any injury, illness, loss, or damage I may sustain while volunteering.  
   
   
3. Agree to indemnify and hold harmless SIFF from any liability, claims, or expenses arising from my actions or conduct while volunteering.

MEDIA RELEASE
I grant SIFF permission to use photographs, video, or other media featuring my likeness taken during festival activities for promotional purposes without compensation.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I have read this waiver and release of liability, fully understand its terms, and sign it freely and voluntarily without any inducement. I understand that by signing this document, I am giving up legal rights and remedies that may be available to me.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS