September 7, 2008

Volunteer

Help make the Boulevard Lakefront Tour a success

We want your help for the 20th annual Boulevard Lakefront Tour Sept. 7 as thousands of bicyclists participate in one of Chicago’s longest-standing rides. Contact blt08volunteer@biketraffic.org or 312-427-3325 ext., 297 for more information. Or you can sign up online to volunteer for before, during and after the event.

Before the event

Packet pick-up — Tentative position…more info coming soon

Event setup — So cycling’s helped you build strong legs? Come give that upper body a workout on Saturday, Sept. 6. Load trucks with the event supplies, set up tables and chairs, hang banners and signs, and do odd jobs around the start/finish area. Heavy lifting is optional.

Signage team — Hang signage along the routes so riders know where to go. This crew will also be responsible for colleting the signs after the ride.

Route markers — About one week before the event, teams of volunteers will take to the streets overnight and mark the routes. All supplies and instructions will be provided.

During the event

Rest stops, water stops and truck drivers… oh my! — Assist in setting up and serving snacks and water to hydrate our Boulevard Lakefront Tour participants. We are also looking for truck drivers to transport supplies.

Ride Marshals (medic and repair) — Cyclists experienced in bike repair and/or are medically trained are needed to patrol the route, change flats, make adjustments, attend to minor injuries and help course marshals direct the ride. Ride Marshals are chosen based on experience so the ride is safe, well organized and fun for all participants.

Course Marshals — Course Marshals are the heart of the Boulevard Lakefront Tour. Groups of volunteers staff an intersection along the route to direct riders and offer encouragement. Bring your lawn chair, radio and snacks and turn it into a party.

SAG Drivers — We need safe Support and Gear (SAG) Drivers to pick up cyclists whose bikes quit on them. Vehicles will be provided if you don’t have a car.

Reunion Team — Join our crew of Reunion Volunteers. We’re looking for people to help reunite lost riders with other members of their party. We are seeking mobile and stationary members for this team. Medical experience or experience working with children is a plus.

Post-ride festival — Help distribute T-shirts and goody bags to participants, sell shirts from past Chicagoland Bicycle Federation events, or help spread the good word about the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation at our membership tent.

After the event

Event teardown — Help us put all of our toys away at the end of the day. We’ll load our trucks with the supplies from the event, then bring the trucks back to the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation office at 9 W. Hubbard St. and unload them.

Sign up here as a Boulevard Lakefront Tour volunteer.