Volunteer for PONCHO

Registration for the PONCHO 2010 Big Bash for the Arts
is now open!

Click Here to Register!

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 2010 Big Bash for the Arts, October 2, at the Seattle Sheraton Hotel
After years of success, PONCHO is continuing its tradition of bringing exciting and ever evolving fundraising events to our community. PONCHO’s fall event, Big Bash for the Arts, combines the best elements of art auctions of the past with the hallmark of PONCHO glamour. The Big Bash for the Arts encompasses not only fantastic “works of art” from local artists and private collections, but extends the excitement into the world of fashion, travel, and one-of-a-kind experiences.
PONCHO is committed to continuing the work it began more than forty years ago, but we cannot do it alone. We need your help.
If you have questions about registration or volunteering for the auction, please do not hesitate to call Anastasia Kotar at 206-623-6233 ext. 205 or email us at anastasia@poncho.org.

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. 205 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 its 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 areas most established organizations as well as some of our newest and most innovative ones, and helps to ensure Seattles 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