Volunteers, Let Us Answer Your Questions about the International Folk Art Market | Santa Fe

 

How do I check my Volunteer schedule? How do I add or remove shifts?

To check your volunteer schedule, navigate to VicNet using this link: http://www.volgistics.com/vicnet/397084

Use the email address you used to sign up for volunteering with IFAM. When you first signed up with IFAM, you were asked to create a password, this is where you input that password! If you forgot your password or don’t remember creating one, simply click the “Forgot password?” option, and VicNet will instruct you on how to reset it. Once you are signed in you will see four tabs up top, select the “Schedule” option and jump to the month where your volunteer shift begins (June/July). As a reminder, if you selected shift times on your registration form that means you signed up for those shifts! Please check your schedule and make sure you can cover the shifts you signed up for.

If you need any help, please contact Francesca@172.97.101.154.

I only see my volunteer team on the schedule, does that mean all other shifts are filled?

Nope! You need to register for a team in order to see their volunteer shifts. You can do so on our Volunteer Registration page or my emailing francesca@folkartvolunteers and letting us know what teams you are interested in.

Where is my volunteer ticket?

As a volunteer you receive two free tickets, one for any general admission session and one for our Volunteer Appreciation session, which is Sunday at 3 pm. After you’ve registered for two shifts or more, you will receive email instructions. Haven’t received them? Email francesca@folkartvolunteers.org Remember, you do NOT need a ticket to volunteer – this ticket is for you to enjoy the Market outside of your shift.

Why have Artist Assistant, Artist Partner, and Cashier positions changed?

Unlike previous years where volunteers were assigned to one artist/stayed in one booth, this year we will have one Artist Assistant assigned to an area of four artists. Cashiers will also be assigned to one area, servicing four artists. We understand volunteers have loved working with particular artists over the years, but we hope this change will allow Artist Assistants to get to know even more artists. Similar to last year, Artist Partners will be standing in for artists that are unable to physically attend Market this year, but would still like the opportunity to sell their items. These positions have been adapted in an effort to reduce the number of people in confined spaces in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

I’m a volunteer, how do I get to Museum Hill? Where do I park? What if I need ADA access to the Hill?

There is NO PARKING on Museum Hill. Ride a shuttle or your bike! Please note that Volunteer parking is at the following locations close to Museum Hill: Rio Grande School, Atalaya Elementary School, and Modern Elder Academy (previously IHM Retreat Center). Plan to be at your shuttle parking lot 30 minutes before your shift begins to arrive at the Market in plenty of time. We do have ADA volunteer shuttles available. You can always ride your bike to Market and check it at our designated Bike Valet station near the entrance of Market!

Rio Grande School
715 Camino Cabra, Santa Fe, NM 87505

Atalaya Elementary School
721 Camino Cabrea, Santa Fe, NM 87501

Modern Elder Academy (previously IHM Retreat Center)
50 Mt Carmel Rd, Santa Fe NM 87505

The volunteer shuttle is going to drop you off right at Volunteer Check-In, where you will check-in before reporting to your station.

For Parking questions, particularly those related to ADA access to the Market email francesca@172.97.101.154.

What are the COVID-19 protocols for this year? What is your mask policy?

Masks are optional but encouraged when interacting with the artists or in a highly-populated area. If you know you want to mask, please bring your own. However, we will have masks available for those who forget. There will be signage encouraging masks in the tents, but this will not be enforced or mandated.
If you have any questions or concerns please contact francesca@172.97.101.154

How many shifts can I sign up for?

You can sign up for as many shifts as you’d like, however, please note that for most teams (with shorter shifts) we are asking you to sign up for at least two shifts to be eligible for a complimentary general admission session ticket. These two shifts do not need to be back-to-back, nor do they need to be on the same day. 

Should I bring food with me? Will I be provided lunch?

The Market provides a limited amount of snacks for volunteers. This year, we recommend bringing something with you to snack on. The Volunteer Hospitality tent welcomes all volunteers to enjoy a selection of snacks, coffee, and beverages among amazing volunteers from throughout the country. The tent is open all day on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Plan to stop by before your shift or during a break. Please note: Although we make every effort to provide a wide variety of snacks, we are not able to accommodate every nutritional need or food preference. If you have specific dietary requirements or food sensitivities, we recommend that you to bring what you need. Meals can also be purchased at the Museum Café before or after your shift, or from one of the Food Bazaar vendors.

Should I bring a water bottle?

YES! We are not using single-use cups at water stations, PLEASE bring a reusable water bottle. You will be able to refill this bottle at one of our three water stations. IFAM water bottles will be available for purchase for $5.

What if I get hurt during Market?

We do have a First Aid tent for minor injuries. Please remember that IFAM is not responsible for any injuries you might incur, that being said please look out for yourself. Our event takes place in July, it can get hot – lookout for signs of heat stroke: confusion, agitation, loss of consciousness, a high temperature, shortness of breath, etc. Take breaks when you need breaks, drink lots of water, and wear a hat to protect yourself from sun exposure. In case of serious emergency, immediately call 911. IFAM will have a non-dedicated team of EMTs/ambulances stationed during Opening Night, Early Bird, and Night Market.

Do we get badges this year?

In an effort to reduce waste, we are not using badges for volunteers this year. You will check in by name and will write out a daily stick-on nametag to adhere to your t-shirt.

What about the weather?

If you’ve been to Market before you know that we are a rain or shine event unless lightning and thunder pose danger. July is monsoon season, so if you work an afternoon shift don’t be surprised if it rains! In the case of dangerous weather conditions, we will move guests, volunteers, and artists into the Museum of International Folk Art.

What should I bring with me to my volunteer shift?

Average temperatures in Santa Fe in July range in the mid-90s. July is also the “monsoon” season for northern New Mexico, during which afternoon rains are common. We recommend bringing a backpack, a reusable water bottle, adequate food for the amount of time you’ll be away from home, chapstick, sun protection such as a hat and sunblock, and a light plastic poncho or umbrella. If you are volunteering during a night shift, you should also bring a flashlight. Your shift will end after dark outside, and parking lots may have inadequate lighting. IFAM is cashless this year, so bring checks or credit cards. Wear comfortable shoes. (So important!) And come prepared to have fun and make new friends!

What types of volunteer opportunities exist?

We have over 30 teams of volunteers that contribute to the success of the International Folk Art Market during July each year, so there are many opportunities to find your best volunteer fit. By far, the largest number of opportunities are for Cashiers, Interpreters, and Artist Assistants who work in the booths with the artists to assist with the sales process. Volunteer job descriptions are available here: Volunteer Position Descriptions

What if I want to volunteer on multiple teams?

You can volunteer for multiple team as long as your shift times do not conflict. Please register for your first choice, then email us at francesca@172.97.101.154 so we can add you to additional teams.

Can I volunteer with my friend?

Yes. You can sign up with a friend or partner by finding a shift with two available slots. You and your partner must each register for one of the available shifts using your own accounts.

Can I choose the artist I work with?

Some artists may bring their own assistants or request specific volunteers ahead of time. In the past, volunteers have been able to request to work with one artist, however, in 2022 we are assigning volunteers to small areas, as opposed to singular booths. For Artist Partner, Artist Assistant, and Cashier positions you can still clarify your artist preference, but please know we may not be able to accommodate it. For a list of this year’s accepted artists visit our 2022 IFAM Accepted Artists page.

Where can I store my personal belongings? Will I be able to check in my purse and backpack somewhere?

There is no secure storage for personal items such as handbags, so please keep this in mind as you decide what to bring with you. The best solution for storing your water bottle, sunblock, and other personal items is a fanny pack or a backpack. Plan on carrying everything you might need (cell phone, ID, credit card, keys, water, etc.) on your person in your pockets, a fanny pack, or crossbody.

Are there volunteer benefits?

We are extremely grateful for your help producing the largest folk art market of its kind!

Volunteers receive:

  • Two free tickets, one to a general admission session of your choosing and one for Sunday at 3 pm
  • A commemorative Market Volunteer t-shirt
  • Early access to a limited amount of first-come first- served tickets when you sign up for 2 or more volunteer shifts
  • A volunteer shuttle to bring you to and from Museum Hill
  • A volunteer hospitality tent with snacks & refreshments

On top of all that, it’s an unparalleled and unique volunteer experience where the world comes to Santa Fe!

Can I shop?

Volunteers have early access to a limited amount of first-come first- served tickets when you sign up for 2 or more volunteer shifts, in addition to one free complimentary ticket to the session of your choosing.  Our hope is that you can purchase tickets, or use your one free session ticket, around your scheduled volunteer shift. We hope you will shop, but expect that you will respect a few simple rules:

– Please do not abandon your station to shop during your shift. If the shift is slow, coordinate with team members to leave for a short period, or allow yourself time before or after your shift for shopping.

– Do not ask an artist to sell items directly to you with cash, to sell you items before the Market begins on Friday evening, or to “hold” any items for you.

Where do I park if I’m attending the Market outside of my shift?

Guest parking is located at Santa Fe’s Midtown Campus, near the Greer Garson Theater Center. Entrance to the complex is at 1600 St. Michael’s Drive (not far from the intersection with Cerrillos Road). Simply follow the signs from there. IFAM volunteers and security will be on hand as well.

Lot hours are:
Wednesday, July 6: 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Thursday, July 7: 7:30 am to 8:00 pm
Friday, July 8: 7:30 am to 8:00 pm
Saturday, July 9: 7:30 am to 10:30 pm
Sunday, July 10: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Coming from Albuquerque? Ride the Rail Runner to the South Capitol stop and take the shuttle to the Market!

Feel like riding your bike? Bike Valet will be on site all the days of Market to park your bike and keep it safe!

The amazing teams at Santa Fe Trails and Santa Fe Valet – long-time Market partners – will ensure that your ride to and from Market is fun and easy.

How do I get my volunteer t-shirt? Do I have to wear my volunteer t-shirt?

You can pick up your t-shirt at IFAM Center (620 Cerrillos Road) on the following dates:

Wednesday, June 29, 10 am – 4 pm
Friday, July 1, 10 am – 4 pm
Sunday, July 3, 10 am – 4 pm

If you can’t make it, you can plan on picking up your t-shirt at Market when you check-in for your first shift. You are required to wear your 2022 volunteer t-shirt while volunteering, this is how you are identified! Your t-shirt is free.

 

Can I be reimbursed for my expenses?

We cannot pay for or reimburse volunteer travel expenses. Some volunteer expenses can be itemized as tax deductions. (Consult your tax professional for details.) If you require a letter of service as proof of performance, email us at francesca@172.97.101.154

Is there a Volunteer T-Shirt Decorating Contest?

Yes! Take a photo of yourself in your t-shirt at the International Folk Art Market and email it to francesca@172.97.101.154 with “T-Shirt Contest” in the subject line by Friday, July 15. Winners will be selected and notified by Monday, July 25.

The 1st place winner will receive two tickets to the 2023 IFAM Opening Night Gala

The 2nd place winner will receive two tickets to the 2023 Felicidades! Post-Market Party
When should I arrive for my shift?

Please plan on arriving at the volunteer parking lot 30 minutes early to factor in catching the shuttle and getting through volunteer check-in. You should be at your station by the start time of your shift.