What’s the best thing about volunteering with Destination ImagiNation? Our 30,000 volunteers internationally say: The kids, the kids, the kids! Here's a list of some of the things our volunteers enjoy most about the experience:
- "Spending time with my kids, grandchildren…."
- "Seeing the kids' creativity blossom!"
- "Watching them having so much FUN!"
- "Being involved in their development."
- "They're learning incredible teamwork skills without even realizing it."
- "Watching them loving learning!"
- "The kids’ pride and self-confidence—they solve amazing problems, and do it all themselves!"
- "I get to hang out with other creative people!"
- "It helps me improve my own parenting skills."
- "I learn things I can use professionally."
- "I’m contributing my skills and knowledge to a worthwhile program!"
Because Destination ImagiNation is a not-for-profit organization, almost everything we do is organized and executed by an extraordinary group of volunteers. Please consider joining us in this very rewarding and worthwhile process!
Many parents and grandparents get involved because they believe in what DI provides for their kids. Lots of our volunteers don’t have children, or they volunteer long after their kids are grown. Our own program alumni frequently give back by sharing their personal passions for DI by volunteering. Corporations and professional organizations often encourage their employees to volunteer with DI because of the innovation, teamwork, technical, and very practical life skills that are being developed. DI is also a great way for future teachers and other college students to learn a phenomenal educational process, get practical experience, and earn community service hours—the fun way!
Regardless of your inspiration, or the amount of time you can contribute, we’ve got a rewarding opportunity for you! We’ll provide any training; although in most cases, there’s not much needed. Opportunities range from single-day commitments to those that will keep you as busy as you want to be!
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact your Regional or state/country ("Affiliate") Director. Click here for contact information.
A Sample of Volunteer Roles within Destination ImagiNation
Team Managers
Love kids? Got snacks? Want to be part of an amazing development process? Adults age 18 and up who facilitate Destination ImagiNation teams of up to 7 kids. Many TMs are parents, teachers, or community members. Local training and most resources are provided. Very much a facilitative and coordinative role, rather than an instructor.
School Coordinators
Coordinators help form teams within schools or districts, and provide leadership and support for Team Managers.
Event Volunteers
You name it. We need hands! Registration, greeters, merchandise sales desk, traffic directors, poster-hangers, scoreroom numbers crunchers, packet stuffers, refreshments, and the list goes on. Typically single or partial day assignments.
Appraisers and Subject Matter Contributors
Engineers, theater and improv enthusiasts, scientists, (and those who may not be techies but love kids)----This one is for you! Appraisers watch team presentations and then award points according to established scoring rubrics at Tournaments. Typically a one-day commitment per season, plus just a few hours of training or orientation. Challenge Developers and Challenge Masters may help design and implement seasonal and tournament program content.
There are always local needs for accountants, marketing or publicity specialists, grant writers, computer and systems experts, fundraisers, training specialists, and individuals with other areas of professional knowledge and skill to consult, advise, help with projects.
Regional Directors, Affiliate Directors
Networkers, organizers, leaders, and passionate doers. Selfless individuals who share their time and talents to coordinate Destination ImagiNation activities for their local area, state (or country). They develop and implement strategies to share Destination ImagiNation with schools and other potential participants and manage recruitment, tournaments, and events. They coordinate Boards and committees, may manage finances, and direct the successful delivery and growth of the Destination ImagiNation program in a particular area.
Board of Trustees
A Board of Trustees whose members govern the Destination ImagiNation, Inc. organization.
Community Advisory Boards, Sponsors, and other Contributors
Community Advisory Board members are typically representatives from sponsoring organizations who offer advice and guidance to Destination ImagiNation. Meeting and event space, scholarship contributions, subject matter experts, supplies and materials, and services are always needed and appreciated.
