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Hilltop U.S.A. 5K

July 4, 2026
Directions

Parking High Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

As a Parking Volunteer, you'll be responsible for directing participants to the designated parking areas for the event and ensuring their safety along the way to registration. Your primary duty will be to direct participants to the BOSS parking lot located across the street from Glenwood United Methodist Church.

In the event that the BOSS parking lot (the old swimming pool) is sold out, you will need to direct participants to park at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, located at 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204.

Your shift will start at 06:15 am, and you'll need to park your car at either the BOSS parking lot or the Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, depending on availability.

At 06:30 am, you'll need to walk over to Glenwood United Methodist Church to pick up your volunteer shirt and safety vest at the registration table. Please do not park at Glenwood, the YMCA, or the pool.

Once you have completed your parking duties, you may be assigned to other duties as needed to ensure the smooth operation of the event. We appreciate your help in making the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race a success!

Location

Shirt & Safety Vest Pickup: Registration Table at the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church.

Sign Pickup: Task Coordinator Ray McMahon will bring signs "lot open/lot closed"

BOSS Parking Lot: 2737 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204

Luther B. Turner Lodge F & AM: 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Registration and Packet Pickup High Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

As a Registration and Packet Pickup Volunteer, you'll be the heart of race day! You'll have the opportunity to welcome participants to the event, assign bib numbers, hand out race packets, and organize/hand out event shirts.

You'll also be responsible for answering questions about the event, and providing directions to restrooms.

Standing for long periods of time will be required for this position. You'll need to be friendly, outgoing, and able to handle a high volume of people efficiently.

Your shift will start at 06:30 am at Glenwood United Methodist Church. You'll need to walk to the registration table to pick up your volunteer shirt and safety vest. As a Race Ambassador, you'll welcome participants and help them through the registration process.

We appreciate your help in making the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race a success!

Location

Park at 06:15 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Walk to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

Aid Station High Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

As an Aid Station volunteer, you'll be responsible for keeping the runners and walkers hydrated at Wilson Road Park. This is a great opportunity for small groups or families to volunteer together!

Your duties will include filling water cups, cheering and encouraging runners and walkers, and handing out water cups to passing participants. After the last runners pass by, you'll need to clean up and break down the area.

Your shift will start at 07:30 am at Wilson Road Park. Please note that the first runner is expected to arrive at approximately 08:08 am, and the sweeper is expected to pass by at approximately 09:35 am.

As an Aid Station volunteer, you'll be an important part of the race, providing much-needed support and encouragement to the participants. This position may require some moderate lifting up to 40 lbs, and you will likely get a bit wet, so please wear old shoes and clothing that can take a little bit of water.

You'll need to check in with the Aid Station Coordinator upon arrival, and they will provide you with any necessary instructions or equipment. We appreciate your help in making the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race a success!

Location

Park at Wilson Road Park, 275 S Wilson Rd, Columbus, OH 43204.

Walk to the covered shelter area.

Course Marshal High Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

As a Course Marshal, you’ll help guide runners and walkers and ensure everyone stays safe and on the right path. This is one of the most important roles on race day, and a great way to support the event.

You’ll be stationed along the route to direct participants, answer basic questions, and watch for any safety issues. Course Marshals also help keep trail users and cyclists aware of the race.

You’ll need to check in at the registration table by 7:30 AM to get your safety vest and volunteer shirt. All Course Marshals are required to bring a charged cell phone and have current CPR/First Aid certification.

Once the race begins, your job is to stay alert, be visible, and remain at your assigned location until the sweeper final pass confirms that all runners have cleared the area. You’ll be part of a group text thread on race day to help with coordination and emergency communication.

This is a great position for calm, friendly volunteers who want to help runners stay safe and encouraged out on the course.

Location

Your assigned location will be emailed to you a few days before the event. It will include:

Where to park

When to expect the first and last runners

What to say to participants and bystanders

Who to contact if something comes up

We’ll also provide a printed instruction sheet at check-in. You’ll be added to the race day group text to stay in the loop. Most marshal stations are cleared by 10:00 AM. Thank you for supporting the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K!

Finish Line Volunteer High Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

As a Finish Line Volunteer you will be one of the first people our race participants see as they cross the finish line.

You will be tasked with unwrapping and hanging the medals and putting the snacks on tables. Once the race starts, you will cheer on the participants, distribute medals and water, and direct them towards the snacks.

Your shift will begin at 6:30 am, with the last runner/walker expected around 9:45 am

We appreciate your help in making the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race a success!

Location

Park at 06:15 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Walk to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

Floater Volunteer Medium Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

Floater volunteers would need to be available on race day to fill in where needed, or if a volunteer is not able to make it on race day.

You will be required to be at the race by no later than 7am and be ready to fill in where needed.

Location

Glenwood Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Dr Col 43024

Course Sweeper Medium Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

Safety of Runners
Course Sweepers (CS) will follow the direction of the Lead Course Sweeper (LCS).

Sweepers help ensure injured racers receive proper care in a timely manner. The CS will carry a cell phone and a map with the closest road access points. It's crucial to be familiar with the course and know where you are at all times.

In case of an emergency, the CS should stay with the injured runner and wait for help, or try to reach the nearest aid station or course marshal together. The last runner should always have a sweeper with or behind them. In an emergency, contact 911 FIRST and then notify the Safety Coordinator and team via the WhatsApp group.

Ideally, you should keep the last runner in sight and maintain their pace before reaching an aid station. If the trailing participant is unlikely to finish the race, the LCS will stay with them, and a CS may proceed to the next runner.

Volunteers at the aid station appreciate when you arrive because they can start packing up as all racers have passed. This also applies to the finish line; when sweepers arrive, it indicates all runners are in. The closer you are to the final racers, the sooner help can be deployed if someone gets off course.

Motivating/Cheering/Reassuring Runners
Another aspect of sweeping is to motivate and reassure the last runners. Each runner is different, so when approaching them, ask if they need company and how they're feeling. Some runners prefer not to have sweepers running closely behind them as it can feel pressuring. If so, give them space. Other times, they might need company, so be friendly and supportive. Just make sure to maintain enough distance to see all the course markers. Runners often ask for information about the course, like distances to the next aid station or elevation details, so it's helpful to be knowledgeable.

Location

If driving, park at 07:00 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Walk to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

Please arrive no later than 07:30.

Photographer Medium Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

As a Race Photographer, please note that this is an uncompensated volunteer position. You'll be responsible for capturing the excitement and energy of the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race through photographs as a volunteer.

We'll have one Race Photographer stationed at the retention pond area of Wilson Road Park, which is one of the most scenic parts of the trail. This photographer will be responsible for capturing the natural beauty of the area and the participants as they make their way through the course.

The other Race Photographer(s) will be stationed at Glenwood United Methodist Church and will photograph the pre-race expo and finish line area. These photographers will be responsible for capturing the excitement and energy of the participants as they prepare for the race and cross the finish line.

Your shift will start at 08:00 am at your assigned location. You'll need to check in with the Race Photographer Coordinator, who will provide you with any necessary instructions or equipment.

As a Race Photographer, you'll need to have your own camera equipment, including a digital camera with a high-resolution lens. You'll need to be able to move around quickly and discreetly to capture candid shots of the participants.

Your photos will be used to promote future Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising races, and they may be used in marketing materials and on social media. We appreciate your help in making the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race a success!

Location

Please note that we'll provide an uplink to OneDrive for Race Photographers to upload their photos. Carl Voellmecke will provide the uplink, and you'll need to follow the instructions provided by the Race Photographer Coordinator to access and upload your photos.

We appreciate your help in making the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race a success, and your photos will be an important part of promoting future races and generating excitement among participants and supporters!

Lead Cyclist High Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

As the Lead Cyclist, you'll be responsible for leading the way for the runners and walkers along the race course.

Your shift will start at 08:00 am at Glenwood United Methodist Church. You'll need to arrive at the starting line and be ready to lead the participants along the race course.

As a Lead Cyclist, you'll need to have your own bicycle, helmet, and safety gear. You'll need to be familiar with the race course and be able to communicate effectively with participants. Your role as a Lead Cyclist is critical to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the participants.

You'll need to maintain a steady pace and be able to handle your bike in various weather conditions. We appreciate your help in making the Hilltop U.S.A. 5K fundraising race a success!

Location

If driving, park at 07:00 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Walk (or ride) to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

Please arrive no later than 07:30.

Resources Needed

Bicycle and Helmet - 1

Expo Director Low Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

You are free to roam the Expo and make sure everything is in order.

Location

Park at 05:30 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204 Note: You can use the Glenwood back parking lot if you are setting up a booth.

Walk to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

Event Emcee Low Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

This is an uncompensated volunteer position that will host the event and make all announcements prior to the start of the race and to announce the race awards.

Location

Park at 06:15 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Walk to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

The volunteer shirts are Red and the Race Shirts are Blue - the printing is otherwise identical. Please wear the Red shirt so people know you are an event representative.

LEAD Aid Station Low Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

Keep the runners and walkers hydrated by volunteering at Wilson Road Park. This would be great for small groups or a family!

Aid station volunteer duties may include:

- Filling water cups
- Cheering and encouraging runners
- Handing out water cups to passing runners
- Cleaning up and breaking down the area after the last runners passes by

This position may require some moderate lifting up to 40 lbs, and you will likely get a bit wet so wear old shoes and clothing that can take a little bit of water.

Location

Park at 06:15 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Walk to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

Assist with Expo setup as needed.

At 07:45 AM, proceed to the aid station at Wilson Road Park, 275 S Wilson Road, Columbus, OH 43204

LEAD Registration/Packet Pickup & Medal Distribution Low Priority

July 4, 2026

Details

Be the heart of race day by volunteering for Registration/ Packet Pickup and then cheer the participants in at Medal Distribution!

Registration/Packet Pickup & Medal Distribution duties may include:

- Welcoming participants to the event (Race Ambassador)
- Assigning bib numbers to participants
- Handing out packets to participants
- Organizing/handing out event shirts
- Answering questions about the event
- Providing directions to restrooms
- Unwrapping medals
- Distribution of medals to participants
- Removal of debris from area
- Smiles and high fives

Standing for long periods of time is required.

Location

Park at 06:00 at Luther B Turner Lodge F & AM, 2933 Valleyview Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Walk to the Pre-race Expo at Glenwood United Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204 to get your volunteer shirt. (registration table)

Proceed to the finish line tables to hand out post-race Medals, Food & Drinks.

Safety Coordinator Low Priority

At least 1 more volunteer needed.

Details

Monitors the WhatsApp group chat and coordinates with emergency services and the race director.

Location

Glenwood Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Dr Col 43024

Volunteer Coordinator Low Priority

At least 1 more volunteer needed.

Details

Floater volunteers would need to be available on race day to fill in where needed, or if a volunteer is not able to make it on race day.

You will be required to be at the race by no later than 7am and be ready to fill in where needed.

Location

Glenwood Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Dr Col 43024

LEAD Course Sweeper Low Priority

At least 1 more volunteer needed.

Details

The Lead Course Sweeper (LCS) is responsible for the safety and coordination of all Course Sweepers (CS). The main focus is ensuring that injured runners receive timely care. As LCS, you will carry a cell phone and a course map with road access points, maintaining a clear understanding of the course layout.

In emergencies, call 911 first, then message the designated WhatsApp group to notify the Safety Coordinator and team. Stay with the final runner and match their pace. If the last runner cannot finish, stay with them and direct other CS to proceed to the next runner.

Your arrival at aid stations indicates all participants have passed, allowing volunteers to begin closing. This also applies to the finish line. You should know the course layout, aid stations, and key access points.

Motivating and reassuring runners is crucial. Approach each runner with empathy and adjust your pace to their comfort level. Some prefer space, while others appreciate company. Provide information about upcoming aid stations, course elevation, or other details runners might ask for.

Ideal candidates have experience in race events or similar roles, physical fitness to maintain pace and manage emergencies, and strong communication skills for coordination and support.

Location

Glenwood Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Dr Col 43024

Flag Coordinator Low Priority

At least 1 more volunteer needed.

Details

Here's the Flag Coordinator role description with the addition of flag installations at Wilson Road Park to mark course turns:

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The Flag Coordinator is responsible for adding a patriotic touch to the Hilltop USA 5K by preparing and installing flags along the race route. This role involves pre-installing holes for large flags on Hague Avenue and placing mini flags on race day, including new flag installations at Wilson Road Park to mark course turns.

Before the race, the Flag Coordinator collaborates with race organizers to pre-install holes for large flags on Hague Avenue, ensuring proper placement and maintaining safety standards. It's important to avoid blocking runners near the start line, where the crowd is typically dense.

On race day, the Flag Coordinator installs mini flags at designated points along the course. This year, mini flags will also mark course turns at Wilson Road Park, which can be done by the person responsible for chalking the path. The setup should be completed before the race begins to avoid disrupting runners and race operations.

Ideal candidates for this role are organized, reliable, and able to work efficiently in outdoor environments. Attention to detail and good time management are crucial, as the flags must be in place before the race starts. A sense of patriotism and enthusiasm for community events adds to the role's success.

Location

Glenwood Methodist Church, 2833 Valleyview Dr Col 43024

Logistics Coordinator Low Priority

At least 1 more volunteer needed.

Ruck & Award Coordinator Low Priority

At least 1 more volunteer needed.

Medical Support (Wilson Road Park) Medium Priority

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

At least 1 more volunteer needed.

Details

You’ll serve as the on-site medical support stationed at Wilson Road Park, near the mid-point of the race course. This is not an aid station role—you won’t be handling water—but you’ll be positioned to respond in case any participants experience medical issues.

Please arrive by 8:15 a.m. and bring your AED. Check in at the covered shelter area upon arrival. You’ll be working directly with our safety coordinator, Justin Fogt (614-260-8958, justin.fogt@gmail.com). The first runners are expected around 8:36 a.m., with the final participants passing by approximately 9:05 a.m. You’ll be in position to assist if needed and may coordinate with staff at the start/finish line if a situation arises.

You’ll receive a volunteer shirt and are welcome to stick around for free ice cream after the race.

Location

Wilson Road Park – 275 S Wilson Rd, Columbus, OH 43204
Please park near the shelter and walk to the covered area.

Resources Needed

AED - 1

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