Volunteer
We are currently updating our page! Please check back later for updated 2023 Volunteers Department Information.
If you have any questions, please contact us at volunteers@fanime.com.
Volunteering is as easy as showing up to FanimeCon, getting your badge, and letting us know you want to volunteer. No need to attend meetings or learn anything in advance. The department you volunteer for will train you on the spot and tell you what you need to know.
Why Volunteer?
Because FanimeCon needs your help! Work just 20 hours and get a full reimbursement of your weekend badge, or work 5 hours to get reimbursed for a single day badge*. Volunteers are wanted at all hours in virtually all departments, so stop by and find the schedule that works for you.
*Minors under the age of 18 are only required to work 16, 8, or 4 hours for Full-Weekend, Half-Weekend, or Single-Day badges respectively.
How old do I need to be in order to volunteer?
You must be at least 13 years old to volunteer. If you are below the age of 18, a guardian will have to sign your minor waiver form.
Parent or Guardian Consent Waiver: link
How will I receive my reimbursement?
Reimbursements will be mailed out after the convention.
Where do I sign up?
Once you get your badge, immediately head over to the Volunteers Room on the 2nd floor of the San Jose Marriott! We are located in the Silicon Valley Boardroom.
When does the Volunteers Room open?
The Volunteers Room hours are as follows but subject to change:
Thursday: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Friday: 8:30 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday: 8:30 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday: 8:30 am – 9:00 pm
Monday: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
How do I learn more?
Stop by the Volunteers Room during the convention, or email us at volunteers@fanime.com.
Volunteers FAQ
What do I need to do to get reimbursed?
If you purchased a full weekend badge, either through pre-registration or at the convention, you will need to work at least 20 hours to get a reimbursement. If you purchased a Half-Weekend or One-Day badge, you will only need to work 10 or 5 hours, respectively, to get reimbursed*. Once you have completed your hours, return to the Volunteers Room with your timesheet.
*Minors under the age of 18 are only required to work 16, 8, or 4 hours for Full-Weekend, Half-Weekend, or Single-Day badges respectively.
When do I get reimbursed?
Allow 6-9 weeks to receive your reimbursement check. If you do not receive your check, please email us at volunteers@fanime.com. We work very hard to ensure everyone gets their reimbursement as quickly as possible.
What do Volunteers do?
As a volunteer, you are not limited to just one job or one department. There are a wide variety of tasks available and all of them are important. Some examples include badge checking, watching doors, helping with setup and cleanup, bag stuffing, working video rooms, helping attendees, and more.
What is the difference between Volunteering and Staffing?
To be staff, you must apply to a department prior to FanimeCon and you may be added if there is room. There is a significant time commitment required which involves a series of staff meetings and possible training sessions. During the convention, you must work at least 24 hours, although more is typically expected. You will receive a staff badge and will not need to first purchase a regular attendee badge.
Volunteering does not require any time commitment before the convention and you can sign up at FanimeCon. We always need more volunteers and only in the rarest situations would we turn help away. Once you complete your 20 hours (5 hours for a one-day badge), you are free to enjoy the rest of the convention. You do need to purchase a regular attendee badge first, but you will be reimbursed after finishing your hours.
Volunteering is also a great way to preview what it is like being staff without putting in the commitment. Many volunteers move on to become staff once they have worked in a certain department.
How old do I have to be?
You must be at least 13 years old in order to volunteer. If you are below the age of 18, a guardian will have to sign your minor waiver form.
Will I still have time to see stuff?
Absolutely, we offer flexible schedules meaning you don’t have to miss your favorite events and will have plenty of time to enjoy the convention.
What if I don’t finish all my hours?
We do not give out partial reimbursements, it is all or nothing. But work as much as you can, and if you cannot complete your 20 hours for whatever reason, we still greatly appreciate your help and hope you enjoy the rest of the convention.
How do I get reimbursed during the convention?
Our policy is to mail out reimbursements after the convention. Only under rare circumstances will reimbursements be given at the con and the reimbursement will always be in the form of a check.
Can I jump the registration line if I volunteer?
Unfortunately you will still need to wait in the registration line like everyone else, even if you decide to volunteer, so show up as early as possible.
What happens if I lose my timesheet?
Don’t lose your timesheet! If it does happen, you will need to get a new timesheet and get all your hours signed off a second time.
What’s the maximum number of hours I can work at a time?
There is no maximum number of hours you can work straight, but remember to allow time for breaks, eating, sleeping, etc.
Do I have to attend any staff meetings?
You do not need to attend any staff meetings.
Do I need any training?
You do not need any prior training. The department you volunteer for will teach you everything you need to know at the convention.
Is there a limit to the number of people that can volunteer?
At this point, there is no limit to the number of volunteers we will accept.
Can I sign up ahead of time?
It is not necessary to sign up ahead of time as we take virtually everyone who wishes to volunteer. Just show up at the convention, get your attendee badge, and head over to the Volunteers Room. If you are under the age of 18, please have the minor waiver form signed and bring it with you.
Can I request specific jobs ahead of time?
You cannot sign up for tasks ahead of time. They will be handed out on a first come, first serve basis at the convention.
