Volunteer Opportunities

Don’t Just Attend GIFF.

Help Bring It to Life.

For six unforgettable days, the Glendale International Film Festival brings filmmakers, artists, students, and audiences together to celebrate storytelling.

Whether you’re welcoming guests, supporting filmmakers, or working behind the scenes, you’ll be part of the team that makes GIFF possible.

Apply To Volunteer

GIFF 2026 at a GLANCE

September 22 – 28, 2026

135+
Films

From around the world

Filmmaker
Q&As

Conversations that inspire

A
Caring Community

You Belong Here

Special
Events

Opening & Awards Nights

4-Hour
Shifts

Flexible scheduling

EVERYONE HAS A DIFFERENT REASON FOR VOLUNTEERING

Some come because they love movies. Some want to meet filmmakers. Some need volunteer hours. Some simply want to be part of something bigger than themselves.

Whatever brings you here, there’s a place for you on our team.

WHY GIFF?

The Glendale International Film Festival (GIFF) is more than a week of films. It’s six unforgettable days of stories, conversations, premieres, community, and discovery.

As a volunteer, you’ll help welcome filmmakers from around the world, assist audiences, support special events, and experience the festival from behind the scenes.

WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

As a Glendale International Film Festival volunteer, you’ll leave with more than volunteer hours—you’ll leave with new experiences, connections, and memories.

WATCH SELECT FILMS

Enjoy festival screenings.

MEET FILMMAKERS

Connect with artists & pros.

BUILD YOUR NETWORK

Meet future friends.

HOURS & TSHIRT

Earn hours and a shirt.

SNACKS & REFRESHMENT

During your shifts

MAKE GIFF POSSIBLE

Create festival experiences

IS GIFF VOLUNTEERING RIGHT FOR YOU?

✔ You enjoy movies and storytelling.

✔ You like meeting people.

✔ You want volunteer or community service hours.

✔ You’d like to meet filmmakers and creatives.

✔ You’re dependable and enjoy working as part of a team.

✔ You want to support the arts in Glendale.

FIND YOUR PLACE ON THE TEAM

Every volunteer role helps bring the Glendale International Film Festival to life.

GUEST EXPERIENCE

Welcome attendees, scan tickets, answer questions, and help screenings run smoothly.

ROLE DETAILS →

TICKETING

Assist with ticket sales, festival passes, customer service, and check-in.

ROLE DETAILS →

Q&A SUPPORT

Help filmmakers and audiences connect during post-screening discussions.

ROLE DETAILS →

PANEL DISCUSSIONS

Support panel discussions and lounge activities while welcoming attendees.

ROLE DETAILS →

FESTIVAL OPERATIONS

Support setup. breakdown, and logistivs to keep events running smoothly.

ROLE DETAILS →

PHOTOGRAPHY & AV

Capture festival moments through photography and video. Experience prefered. 

ROLE DETAILS →

SPECIAL EVENTS

Assist with Opeing Night Party, Closing Awards Night, and other special events. 

ROLE DETAILS →

PUBLICITY & OUTREACH

Help spread the word and support festival marketing and community outreach.

ROLE DETAILS →

Want to learn more about each volunteer role?

Explore responsibilities, requirements, training, and shift details for each volunteer opportunity.

VIEW FULL VOLUNTEER ROLE DESCRIPTIONS →

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I APPLY?

Our volunteer process is simple and supportive. We’ll be here every step of the way.

①

Submit
Your Application

Complete the volunteer application and include your interests

 ②

We’ll Contact
You

Our team will review your application and reach out with next steps.

③

Choose Your Shifts & Roles

Select your preferred roles and shifts that work with your schedule.

④

Attend Volunteer Orientation

Learn what to expect and get ready for an amazing experience.

⑤

Join the Team & Make GIFF Happen

Meet the team, learn what to expect, and get ready for an amazing festival!

Questions along the way? We’re here to help. Reach out anytime at volunteers@glendaleiff.org

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Still have questions?
Here are the answers to the questions we hear most often.

FROM OUR VOLUNTEERS

Do I need expierience?

Except where noted, experience is not needed and training is provided.

Can I volunteer with a friend?

Absolutely, it would make it even more fun!

Can I watch the films?

One of the benefits of being a volunteer is that you can watch the films outside of your shift hours, based on availability.

How long are the shifts?

The shifts typically run 4 hours, however, are adjusted based on availability.

What if my schedule changes?

Life happens. Just let us know as soon as possible so we can adjust the volunteer schedule.

Will I receive volunteer hours?

Yes! Students and community service volunteers can receive documentation of completed volunteer hours.

What should I wear?

Volunteers receive a GIFF volunteer T-shirt. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and some special events may require business casual attire.

“
My favorite part was interacting with guests and seeing their excitement for the films. I also really enjoyed the teamwork — everyone was friendly, cooperative, and passionate about making the event a success.
GIFF Volunteer
“
Volunteering for GIFF was a really enjoyable and rewarding experience. It felt great to be part of something creative and community-driven.
GIFF Volunteer
“
I loved being part of such an engaging event and helping create a welcoming environment for guests. Each role gave me a chance to connect with different people from attendees to organizers and to contribute to the festival’s smooth flow. 
GIFF Volunteer

Ready to Help Bring GIFF to Life?

Join the volunteer team that makes the Glendale International Film Festival possible every September.

 

APPLY TO VOLUNTEER