Volunteer
Volunteers are the backbone of Ride Weekend — bringing the energy, hard work, and dedication that makes BellRinger an unforgettable experience. Sign up, bring a friend, and join a community of people dedicated to ending cancer.
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Opening Ceremony
Be the first smiling face Riders see as they pick up their credentials and prepare for the Ride the following morning.
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Ride Day: Rest Stops
With seven rest stops along the course, volunteers will direct Riders, provide snacks and refreshments, and send them off in style to tackle the rest of their Ride.
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Ride Day: Finish Line
From setting up or tearing down equipment, cheering on Riders as they cross the finish, or ensuring their legs recover from all that riding — Finish Line volunteers are packed with energy and excitement.
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Photography
Take part in capturing tangible memories that our community can look back on forever. Please note, this activity is specifically for photographers who are able to provide their own camera and necessary equipment.
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Medical Support
Medical volunteers provide non-emergent medical suppor during the course of BellRinger Weekend. All medical volunteers must have baseline training and will be approved to participate by BellRinger’s Academic Health System Partner, MedStar Health.
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Route Support
Support and gear (SAG) Drivers are stationed along the route ready to assist Riders in the case of any mechanical issues during the Ride. Mechanical Volunteers stationed in SAG’s must have a valid drivers license.
Become a Lead Volunteer
Interested in taking on a larger leadership role during BellRinger Weekend? Learn more about ways you can do your part as a Lead Volunteer.
Why I Volunteer
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“Spending BellRinger Weekend with thousands of people determined to end cancer each year is unforgettable experience. I can’t wait for round three in 2025!”
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Nate Paisley,
Finish Line Volunteer
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“BellRinger has given me the opportunity to offer my time to contribute and support the impact the Georgetown Lombardi’s Cancer Center has in furthering cancer research. Together, we can all help end cancer once and for all.”
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Amy Dantin,
Opening Ceremony Lead Volunteer
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“I see BellRinger as a fantastic opportunity to contribute to advancement of clinical research and to support our clinicians and scientists in their work.”
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Mary Chris Ponder,
Finish Line Lead Volunteer
Volunteer
View all-
Behind the Camera: Pamela Watson’s Story
With an unexpected last minute change from Riding to volunteering, Pamela Watson made her first trip up to Urbana, MD for BellRinger 2023 to join a community passionate to end cancer.
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A Patient’s Thank You: Robin Hammett’s Story
After years of cancer treatment, 50/100-Mile Volunteer Robin Hammett plans to thank her physician, Dr. Michael Atkins, by cheering him on as he crosses the finish line during BellRinger 2023.
Read More
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A Lifelong Passion: Ashley Gaffey’s Story
From the lab to BellRinger, Ashley Gaffey has combined her passion for research and volunteer spirit to make strides in cancer treatment and inspire Riders on their journey to end cancer.
Read More
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Not a ‘Why’, but a ‘Why Not’
Lead Volunteer Mary Kate Nihill shares her passions for BellRinger and giving back
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
- Volunteer
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Can I volunteer for BellRinger?
Absolutely! There will be ample volunteer opportunities during BellRinger Weekend. Volunteers are the backbone of Ride Weekend, bringing the energy, hard work, and dedication that makes BellRinger an unforgettable experience. Volunteers are needed to staff BellRinger’s Opening Ceremony and the Ride itself. We are always looking for Lead Volunteers who will guide groups of volunteers throughout BellRinger Weekend. If you are interested in becoming a Lead Volunteer, please email us at Ride@BellRinger.org.
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What is the minimum age to volunteer?
You must be at least 14 years old to volunteer, and any minor volunteers (under 18 years of age) must have a parent or guardian’s permission in order to participate.
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Can my children accompany me while I volunteer?
The minimum age for volunteering is 14 years old. If you would like to have your family join you at a rest stop or finish line, we encourage them to come and cheer on Riders! Please be sure you have arranged for another adult to monitor your children during your shift so that you are able to focus on helping our Riders.
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Do volunteers have a minimum fundraising commitment?
While volunteers do not have a fundraising commitment, they are encouraged to fundraise just like Riders and Virtual Riders if they choose to do so. Each volunteer will have a Volunteer Profile and a Volunteer Dashboard that they can use to fundraise.
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I am traveling from out of town for BellRinger, are there any recommended hotels I should stay in?
There are four recommended hotels in the Arlington and DC area that we suggest for anyone traveling to BellRinger. Check out their websites and book your room here:
- Residence Inn by Marriott, Arlington Rosslyn
- Hyatt Centric, Arlington
- Washington Marriott, Georgetown
- Embassy Suites by Hilton, Georgetown
Like many weekends in DC, the weekend of BellRinger is very busy and hotels are booking up due to the Marine Corps Marathon. We recommend you book your hotel soon!
100% of funds raised support
Academic Health System Partner
