Volunteer for PONCHO

PONCHO is truly a volunteer-driven organization. Our growing ranks of hundreds of volunteers contribute the energy and enthusiasm essential to keeping each of our events fresh and exciting, year after year. Volunteer involvement ranges from folks who help out occasionally in our offices to the dedicated Team Captains who have evolved with our auctions over the years to perform highly specialized leadership positions. Individuals and corporate or community group volunteers can assist with procurement efforts, as well as the planning, preparation and execution of auction night activities.

Register to Volunteer

PONCHO currently offers two ways to help contribute to the growth of the local arts community through volunteering;

The PONCHO International Wine Auction, Friday, May 11, 2012 at the Seattle Sheraton Hotel

Registration for this event will open in March. Please check back later for other volunteer opportunities.
Now in its 21st year, the International Wine Auction is PONCHO's most exciting and elegant affair for wine and food aficionados alike! Featuring auction lots of big bottles, unique and rare selections, verticals and special collections from the Northwest and around the world, every collector finds something fabulous for their cellar at the International Wine Auction. Gourmet experiences, exclusive wine-related travel, and gourmet accessories will be included as exciting bidding opportunities. This is a fantastic evening, filled with 5-star food, wine and entertainment.

PONCHO Pinch Hitter
PONCHO welcomes those interested in assisting in our office with daily tasks. By registering as a PONCHO PINCH HITTER, your name will be added to a roster of people we may occasionally call to help with office duties such as mailings, assembly, data entry, etc.

Who can volunteer?

Our events are open to all volunteers over the age of 21. Serving on an Auction Night Team may require long hours of standing, walking and lifting, so we encourage volunteers with limited mobility to coordinate with PONCHO staff at 206.623.6233 ext. 202 to be placed on teams where they will be the most comfortable.

What does volunteering with PONCHO entail?

Volunteering with PONCHO requires each volunteer to register, attend a volunteer training session before the auction, work a two-hour work shift before or after the auction, and serve on an Auction Night Team. Please see the job descriptions for details about each Auction Night Team.

What else should I know about volunteering for PONCHO?

Knowing what to expect will increase the enjoyment of your PONCHO experience. Please see fact sheet and logistics for everything you need to know to make your experience wonderful. Updated information for each auction will be sent to you upon registration.

Why volunteer?

Because it's fun! And because what you give to your arts community comes back in myriad ways, ensuring the continuing vibrancy of the arts that you enjoy. Since 1963, PONCHO has supported more than 200 beneficiary organizations. Your participation serves some of our area's most established organizations as well as some of our newest and most innovative ones, and helps to ensure Seattle's reputation as an arts-rich city.

Is there a registration fee?

PONCHO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising money for the arts. In past years we have required a registration fee for volunteers. In light of the current economy, PONCHO is requesting that those volunteers who are able to do so please make a contribution of $30. This donation helps to offset the cost of the beverages and hot meal served during the volunteer training and on auction night, plus the snacks and drinks available during work shifts, so that each and every dollar raised by our auction can go right into the coffers of the Northwest arts organizations that need them!

Did you know that PONCHO was voted
Best Volunteer Opportunity for the Arts?

"...PONCHO (Patrons of Northwest Civic, Cultural & Charitable Organizations) supports local acts big and small, from the Seattle Symphony to Arts West. Volunteer duties at their annual Gala include attending volunteer training two weeks before the event, Silent Auction setup and cleanup, or being a runner or spotter at the Live Auction. In exchange for your time you get to dress up in your finest duds (i.e. formal wear) and enjoy one of the most elaborate parties of the year for a mere $30 (regular ticket prices begin at $400)."
--Seattle Magazine, December 2002