Want to be part of behind-the-scenes activity needed to make the convention run smoothly while still enjoying the fun?

Want a registration fee refund after helping out at the convention (and having your volunteer time validated)?

Sound good? Well, that’s the idea!

CA departments can use volunteers for a couple of hours at various times to help staff with tasks like these: checking badges, giving out information and directions, helping with various panels and events, working in registration, and other tasks as needed.

Why Volunteer?

Because Clockwork Alchemy needs your help! Work just 15 hours and get a full reimbursement of your weekend membership, or work 5 hours to get reimbursed for a single-day membership. Minors under age 18 are only required to work 12 hours for a full reimbursement of their weekend membership, or 4 hours for a single-day membership.

Volunteering is as easy as showing up to Clockwork Alchemy, getting your badge and letting us know you want to volunteer. You need a government issued photo ID (a school ID works). In addition, anyone under the age of 18 will need a minor waiver form signed by a parent or guardian. No need to attend meetings or learn anything in advance. We train you on the spot and tell you what you need to know.

Things to know:

• You must be at least 13 years old to volunteer.
• Those who are 13—17 must fill out a Parent or Guardian Consent Waiver and have a parent/guardian sign it.
• 15 hours will get you reimbursed for a weekend membership and 5 hours will get you reimbursed for a single-day membership. For minors, 12 hours will get you reimbursed for a weekend membership and 4 hours will get you reimbursed for a single-day membership.
• More information can be found in the Volunteers FAQ below.
• We will try to break up your hours so you can still enjoy the original reason you’re at Clockwork Alchemy—the fun!

Important Documents

• Volunteer Information Form
• Release and Waiver of Liability Form
• Parent or Guardian Consent Form

Volunteer Today!

Volunteers FAQ

Clockwork Alchemy is a community that welcomes and encourages volunteering. The best part is there are no pre-convention meetings or other preparation that needs to be done, meaning you will have time to see and do what you came for—be part of a Steampunk universe. Volunteering is also a great way to decide if you would like to become staff in the future!

What do Volunteers do?

Help where needed—check badges for areas like the Artists’ Bazaar, Special Events, and panels; help with setup and breakdown of sets and props; help in the registration area; and work the various event rooms.

There are things that you need to know before committing yourself to volunteering. If you purchased a weekend membership, either through pre-registration or at the convention, you would need to work at least 15 hours to get full reimbursement. If you purchased a single-day membership, you only need to work 5 hours to get full reimbursement. Minors age 13-17 are only required to work 12 hours for a weekend membership and 4 hours for a single-day membership. And, if you cannot give the required hours for reimbursement, but still want to help, we happily welcome you to the volunteer community.

How do I Volunteer?

After getting your badge, come over to the Volunteers Desk, and tell us that you are here to volunteer. We’ll discuss when and where help is and will be needed. You will also receive a timesheet.

If I want to get my full membership back, can I get it before the end of the convention?

No. The policy is to mail out reimbursement checks after the convention ends.

When do I get reimbursed?

Allow 6–9 weeks to receive your reimbursement check. Please note that in order to be reimbursed you must submit your completed time sheet to the Volunteers Desk before you leave the convention. If you do not receive your check, please email us at volunteers@clockworkalchemy.com.

What if I don’t finish all my hours?

It is all or nothing. However, we will take whatever time you can give us.

Can I jump the registration line if I volunteer?

Unfortunately, you will still need to wait in the registration line even if you decide to volunteer. After you get your badge, come on over to the Volunteers Desk and sign up to volunteer.

Can I sign up ahead of time?

You can print out and complete the volunteer form, and bring it with you to save time. You can also indicate what area you would like to volunteer in; however, be advised you will be asked to volunteer in any area that needs help.

How do people know I’m a volunteer?

Clockwork Alchemy will give you a ’volunteer’ ribbon to put on your badge.

Do I have to attend any staff meetings or attend any training?

No. If you need any training, it will be given to you when you arrive to help.

How old to I need to be in order to volunteer?

Volunteers must be at least 13 years old. Those who are 13–17 years old must have a signed waiver from a parent or legal guardian. If you are a minor under the age of 18, please have your guardian fill out the waiver and bring it to the Volunteers Desk—along with a copy of your guardian’s government issued ID, as well as your own ID.