Swim for Grand Traverse Bay Volunteer Registration

Start Line - General Event Volunteer

You must be 18 or older to volunteer for this task.

August 8, 2026

6:30 am EDT - 8:30 am EDT (At least 1 more needed)

Details

We need folks to help us with general volunteer tasks at the start line. You may be asked to help direct traffic flow, assist with registration, count swimmers/paddlers into the water, and set-up the start area.

Location

Start Line - Location 1

Finish Line - General Event Volunteer

↑ Back to Top

You must be 18 or older to volunteer for this task.

August 8, 2026

7:00 am EDT - 9:00 am EDT (At least 1 more needed)

9:00 am EDT - 11:00 am EDT (At least 1 more needed)

Details

We need folks to help us with general volunteer tasks at the finish line before and after the event. Before the event, you may be asked to help set up tables/chairs/tents, count swimmers/paddlers out of the water, and set-up the finish line area. After the event, you may be asked to take down tables/chairs/tents and clean up the finish line area.

Location

Finish Line - Location 2

Safety Squad

↑ Back to Top

You must be 18 or older to volunteer for this task.

August 8, 2026

7:00 am EDT - 10:00 am EDT (At least 9 more needed)

Details

We are in need of experienced open water paddlers (kayaks only, please reach out if you'd like to be considered with another type of watercraft)

Safety Squad paddlers may help monitor the field of swimmers and individual support kayakers, assist with swimmer counts along the course and create additional visibility on the course. Safety Squad members must be willing to stay with a swimmer until a safety boat arrives in an emergency situation. Safety Squad is NOT responsible for administering first aid.

To join in, you must have

Your own paddlecraft
A U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) for yourself
An extra PFD
Whistle (provided)
A means to bail water (if kayaking)

There will a mandatory safety briefing on the beach at 7:15 a.m. Saturday, August 8 to allow paddlers to be out on the course before the swimmers start.

ALL VOLUNTEER PADDLERS MUST REGISTER (there is no cost) so we have an accurate participant count and your emergency contact information.

Resources Needed

paddle craft - 1+
Coast Guard approved PDF - 2+