Volunteer

Behind every successful SAR event is a team of dedicated volunteers. From registration and course set up, to water stations and FitKidz support, the time, commitment, and generosity these volunteers bring to our community make it possible for SAR to host safe, welcoming, and memorable events for all participants.

Volunteer Rewards Program

SAR has expanded its volunteer appreciation program to recognize the many ways our members contribute. Volunteers can now earn a variety of appreciation gifts based on the hours they give, whether or not they participate in SAR races.

Volunteer Hours	Appreciation Gift
1-9	SAR Volunteer Shirt
10-19	SAR Hat
20-29	Race Entry Voucher
30+	Hooded Sun Shirt

Typical Volunteer Activities

Races & Events

Pre-Race Packet Pickup & Registration – Assist participants in collecting their race numbers and materials. This typically takes place the day before the event at a local business. A great opportunity to welcome runners and build excitement!
Race Day Setup – Help set the stage for race day by setting up tents, course signage, water stations, and other key areas. Your support ensures everything is ready before the first runner steps on the course.
Day-of Registration & Packet Pickup – Be a warm and welcoming face on race morning. Help participants check in and pick up their race packets before the starting horn sounds.
Course Monitors – Positioned along the course, course monitors cheer on participants, help keep them on the correct route, and provide assistance if needed. A great role for enthusiastic supporters!
Water Station Crew – Keep runners hydrated by setting up and managing water tables along the course. A simple but vital role in supporting our participants’ performance and safety.
Food Station Crew – If you love organizing and snacks, this is your spot! Help set up and distribute post-race food like fruit, snacks, and drinks to hungry finishers.
Finisher Medal Distribution – Celebrate the accomplishments of every participant by handing out medals at the finish line. It’s a rewarding role—literally and figuratively!
Cleanup Crew – After the final runner finishes, help us break down tents, pack up supplies, and leave the area clean. No heavy lifting required—just a helpful spirit and willingness to pitch in!

Committees

These are flexible opportunities that generally require attending a meeting and liaising with the assigned committee board member(s). Our committees include:

Arizona Distance Classic (AZDC) Committee – Plans, organizes, and delivers all SAR functions for SAR’s newest signature event: The Arizona Distance Classic Half Marathon, Quarter Maratho, & 5K. Collaborates closely with the Race Director and charity partner to ensure a seamless operation and to establish the AZDC as a premier, long-term, high-quality race experience.
Communications & Marketing Committee – Oversees SAR’s email communications, social media posts, and other promotional outreach.
Community & Social Outreach Committee – Builds connections with local organizations, plans SAR’s social events, and helps ensure our programs are welcoming, inclusive, and community-focused.
Contracts Committee – Oversees and manages contractual agreements between SAR and its contractors, ensuring alignment with and support for SAR’s mission.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee – Champions SAR’s commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming running community. This committee supports efforts to engage underrepresented groups, promote equity in programming, and ensure diverse voices are represented in decision-making.
Fiftieth Anniversary Committee – Plans and executes events in celebration of SAR’s 50th anniversary (1976–2026; formerly Southwest Truckers, 1971–1976). Recognizes significant contributors to SAR and to the broader running and walking community.
Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee – Develops relationships with local businesses and donors to support SAR’s races and events through sponsorships and fundraising initiatives.
Health & Safety Committee – Helps keep our events safe by coordinating hydration planning, medical support, and implementing up-to-date risk and safety protocols.
Membership & Recruitment Committee – Works with the Membership Secretary to help grow and engage SAR’s membership base. This includes developing outreach strategies, welcoming new members, and working to strengthen member benefits and involvement.
Newsletter Committee – Plans and produces SAR’s quarterly newsletter. Collaborates with other board members and race directors to share updates, race info, member stories, and community highlights.
Race Director Development Committee – Recruits, trains, and mentors individuals to become RRCA-certified race directors.
Technology & Website Committee – Manages SAR’s websites, race registration platform, email platform, and other digital tools to ensure smooth and efficient tech operations for our online presence and local events.
Volunteer Committee – Recruits, organizes, and supports volunteers for SAR races and events. This committee helps ensure we have the people-power to make our events successful and fun for all.
Youth & FitKidz Committee – Organize and grow our FitKidz youth running program, helping kids stay active and build healthy habits through running.