Volunteering Is Priceless

Those who can, do.  Those who can do more, volunteer.  This saying sums up the many volunteers of the Iditarod.  It is amazing how many people give so much of themselves to help in every aspect of the Iditarod.  If I have learned anything from my experience as a 2014 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail™ Finalist, it is that volunteers make a difference.

Throughout my entire Iditarod experience, I have been amazed at the wonderful volunteers that are involved in this race.  No matter where you are or what you need there is always someone willing to help.  When I first arrived at the Millenium and checked into the volunteer desk, the volunteers were very excited to learn where we were from.  They answered all of our questions and offered to help us in the future if we needed anything.

During the teacher’s conference, we had several volunteers that helped take registrations each day.  They would show up early and stay the entire day if they were needed.  No matter what we were doing, there was always someone available to help.  If we needed a table, duct tape or a stapler, someone ran to find one.

When you think about all the time and preparation that goes into this race prior to the run down 4^th Avenue, it’s astounding.  There are volunteers for each and every step of the way.  In the summer they have volunteers that help set up tents, sign up mushers and transport supplies.  These volunteers are not just here during race time, they are volunteering throughout the entire year.

I asked a few of the volunteers what they liked about helping out, I found I would hear the same thing from each of them.  They just love the race and love the people.  Most of them said they had become good friends with the volunteers and looked forward to spending time with them again each year.

I was honored to be able to help in anyway while I was here for the race.  I have to say my favorite volunteer time would have to be working in the Race Stats room.  It was amazing how much goes on behind the scenes during the race.  We were assigned the midnight to 6 a.m. shift. Even though everyone was tired, we had a great time.  What a better way to teach our students about helping others than by volunteering.