Chicago Humanities connects people to the ideas that shape and define us, and promotes the lifelong exploration of what it means to be human. The organization fosters curiosity, celebrates creativity, explores the boundaries of contemporary knowledge and culture, and challenges us to see ourselves and the world anew.

Who Are Our Volunteers?

Our volunteers are dedicated people who enjoy exploring the arts and culture community in Chicago while connecting with others. As a nonprofit cultural organization, our volunteer team is crucial to the success – and fun! – of presenting 100+ events annually and creating an exceptional audience experience.

Perks of Volunteering

• Be part of one of the largest and longest-running festivals of arts and ideas in the United States – we’ve been around for more than 30 years, and volunteers are a major part of our story.
• Free tickets to inspiring and thought-provoking events!
• Volunteers will receive four tickets to start. These tickets will be added to your pool within a week of completing your first shift, along with a reveal code that excludes books from tickets or events not ticketed by us.
• For any volunteer that has been with us since 2023, you will receive six tickets, after your first shift to use throughout the Season.
• Make new friends and connect with fellow arts and culture lovers while using your skills and talents.
• Get to know Chicago in a new way – events take place all over the city, in venues large and small.
• Contribute to a fun and enriching experience for thousands of audience members each festival season, including events, book signings, performances, photo-ops, and much more!
• Join a community that prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity – and learn how that works in practice at live events.

How Do I Become a Volunteer?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis!

Fill out our simple application form attached here.

Once your application is approved, our team will reach out with information about attending volunteer orientation and an email to log into our volunteer portal, VicNet.

Once in the portal, you can sign up for volunteer shifts that work for your schedule.

If at any time during the application process or before, you need accommodations, please email access@chicagohumanities.org.

Returning Volunteers

If you’ve volunteered with us before, no need to re-apply! Use this link for Returning Volunteers to log into the volunteer portal, VicNet.

Need a refresh on how to use VicNet? Here is a guide to logging in! https://www.volgistics.com/help/vicnet-portal/volunteer-guide-for-vicnet/

Or email volunteer@chicagohumanties.org for assistance.

Chicago Humanities Policies

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Chicago Humanities is committed to providing a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace, where all employees and volunteers, whatever their gender, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability, feel valued and respected. We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement in all of our departments, programs, and policies. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages and ensure that all voices are valued and heard.

Volunteer opportunities are available without regard to religion, creed, race, national origin, age (18 and over), sex, or disability.

As a reminder all volunteers must abide by the Community Agreements stated below:

The Chicago Humanities community includes our dedicated and enthusiastic audiences and the many presenters, interviewers, staff members, volunteers, partners, and supporters who make the Festival possible on stages across Chicago and on your screen, through our virtual events.

We are all responsible for creating and maintaining a welcoming, safe, and respectful community free of racism, discrimination, intimidation, and harassment (verbal, physical, or sexual). We do not tolerate language or behavior that is offensive or disrespectful to any member of our community based on their role, identity, or ability.

Should you experience individuals not adhering to these community agreements, please ask to speak with a Chicago Humanities manager. Chicago Humanities reserves the right to ask anyone to leave an event for violation of these agreements. Multiple or serious violations of this policy may result in a long-term or permanent ban from our events.