Volunteering at Go For It (GFI)
REGISTRATION TO VOLUNTEER AT GFI 2025 IS NOW OPEN!
To register, log into your account and select the volunteer GFI option. Registration closes on December 31st, 2024.
Go For It (GFI) is an inspirational and motivational character and leadership development conference that builds servant leaders through a focus on personal discovery and skills development.
GFI Bluegrass for grades 6-8 and GFI Commonwealth for grades 9-12.
The 2025 three-day conference takes place over Martin Luther King, Jr. Day weekend; January 18 - 20.
Volunteers play two of the most important roles at the conference. Facilitators lead small groups of students in discussions and activities to help them understand the program theme, which changes each year. Resource Staff lead large group activities like songs and games. They will also help with the magic behind the scenes, including program logistics and technology. The Media Volunteer captures photos, videos, and creates an end-of-the conference slideshow.
If you think volunteering at GFI would be a good fit for you, we would love to have you as a volunteer!
All volunteers must:
- Complete a Background Check (email Emilee McCubbins emilee@kyymca.org with questions)
- Comply with the KY YMCA Volunteer Code of Conduct (online)
- Complete KY YMCA Child Safety Training (online)
- Complete Volunteer Training (on-site)
Facilitator Role Description
Facilitators are volunteers whose primary role at GFI is to lead small groups of students through discussions and activities as part of the GFI program and theme. These groups, or “families,” of 10-15 participants each remain constant throughout the conference; facilitators guide participants through the program in these family groups, moving between thought-provoking discussion and fun shenanigans.
Requirements and Notes
- Full conference and training attendance is required.
- GFI Commonwealth Facilitators should be either 21 years or age or two full years out of high school or equivalent. Resource Staff or Facilitator experience is preferred.
- GFI Bluegrass Facilitators should be at least 18 years of age and high school graduates or equivalent from the previous year. Previous Resource Staff or Facilitator experience is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Lead small groups of students through a program with personal and introspective subject matter. Assist students in reflecting on their character and their potential as leaders both as individuals and as a team
- Encourage students to step outside their comfort zones and see the world from different perspectives
- Foster a small group environment where students listen and engage actively
- Identify students that may require special attention and react accordingly (per additional training that will be provided to volunteers)
- Participate in all aspects of the conference (singing songs, participating in very active games and outdoor activities, wearing costumes, getting messy, and general silliness)
- Be actively engaged during long days with sometimes limited sleep
- Maintain high energy levels during the conference
- Assist in rotating shifts of morning wake-ups and curfew/hall checks. NOTE: Volunteers MUST be accompanied by at least one other volunteer at all times during hall checks and may NEVER enter student sleep rooms.
Resource Staff Role Description
Members of the Resource Staff team are the “magic makers” of GFI. Resource Staff perform many of the behind-the-scenes tasks necessary to prep for upcoming activities at the conference, and they also lead songs and games and guide reflections. The goal of the Resource Staff team is to create a fun, welcoming, well-run conference.
Requirements and Notes
- Full conference and training attendance is strongly preferred; however, Y-Staff may be able to accommodate other arrangements if needed.
- GFI Commonwealth Resource Staff should be either 21 years or at least two full years out of high school or equivalent.
- GFI Bluegrass Resource Staff should be 18 years of age and high school graduates or equivalent from the previous year.
Resource Staff Responsibilities
- Assist in preparing all spaces for upcoming activities, such as games, dances, and our outdoor “Fire of Friendship” bonfire
- Lead students in “Morning Madness,” our active morning session of songs, games, and silliness
- Fully participate to help set the tone for students at the conference (ranging from quiet and attentive to active and participating in songs and games)
- Be actively engaged during long days with sometimes limited sleep
- Maintain high energy levels during the conference
- Assist in rotating shifts of morning wake-ups and curfew/hall checks. NOTE: Volunteers MUST be accompanied by at least one other volunteer at all times during hall checks and may NEVER enter student sleep rooms.
Media Role Description
As a Media Volunteer, you will play a crucial role in capturing the essence of the conference by taking photos and videos throughout the event. Your responsibilities will include documenting key moments, candid interactions, and significant sessions to create a visual narrative of the experience. In addition to daily media coverage, you will be tasked with assembling a highlight reel to present during the closing session, showcasing the energy, learning, and connections made during the conference. Your work will help preserve the memories and impact of the event for all participants.
Requirements and Notes
- Full conference and training attendance is required.
Responsibilities
- Capture high-quality photos and videos of key moments, sessions, and interactions throughout the conference.
- Ensure a diverse range of content, including candid shots, group photos, and event highlights.
- Edit and organize media content daily to maintain a consistent flow of coverage.
- Collaborate with the event team to identify specific moments and sessions to prioritize for coverage.
- Manage and maintain media equipment, ensuring it is charged and ready for use at all times.
- Assemble a conference highlight video to present during the closing session, summarizing the event's energy and impact.
- Assist with live social media coverage if needed, posting selected photos or videos in real-time.
- Communicate effectively with other volunteers and staff to ensure smooth media operations throughout the event.