Last Updated on April 14, 2017 by cassnetwork
INDIANAPOLIS – The 500 Festival, a nonprofit organization providing life-enriching events and programs that celebrate the legacy of the Indianapolis 500, today announces that Citizens Energy Group will return as the presenting sponsor of the 500 Festival Volunteer Program.
Each year, the 500 Festival Volunteer Program, presented by Citizens Energy Group, gathers more than 7,000 volunteers to ensure its events and programs continue to deliver a lasting, significant impact.
“The 500 Festival Volunteer Program is the perfect example of how Hoosier hospitality influences the culture here in Indianapolis,” said Michael Strohl, 500 Festival board member and Senior Vice President, Chief Customer Officer at Citizens Energy Group. “Volunteers give these events that special quality. We’re excited to extend our partnership as we continue to grow and expand the volunteer efforts in many months of May to come.”
Examples of volunteer opportunities for 2017 include:
- Distribute snacks and beverages at Runners’ Services for the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon
- Help with various games & activities at the JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day
- Greet spectators and help them find their seats as an Usher for the IPL 500 Festival Parade
- Help 500 Festival Education Program study trips at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
“We have a special atmosphere in May thanks to so many dedicated Hoosiers who help volunteer,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “We’re excited to welcome back Citizens Energy Group as the presenting sponsor of one of our most vital programs; one that helps us harness that Hoosier hospitality and enrich lives in our city and state.”
The 500 Festival is offering more than 100 areas of volunteer opportunity in 2017, ensuring a role for every interest and ability. 500 Festival volunteers will receive a commemorative volunteer t-shirt and collector’s pin. Volunteers who register before April 12 will also receive an exclusive invitation to the 500 Festival’s Volunteer Appreciation Day hosted at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Volunteer Appreciation Day includes lunch and tickets to that day’s Indianapolis 500 qualifications.
Visit www.500Festival.com/volunteer to learn more, view a list of opportunities, and register to volunteer. Additional questions regarding volunteer opportunities with the 500 Festival may be directed to volunteer@500festival.com.
The 500 Festival Volunteer Program is presented by Citizens Energy Group, with additional support from Meijer, Pepsi, Aquafina and Hot Box Pizza.
About the 500 Festival
Founded in 1957, the 500 Festival is a not-for-profit organization that produces more than 50 life-enriching events and programs while celebrating the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500 and fostering positive impact on the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. One of the largest festivals in the nation, each year more than half a million people attend an event or program produced by the 500 Festival. Since its founding, the 500 Festival has contributed more than $400 million in economic value to Indianapolis. To learn more about the 500 Festival, please visit www.500festival.com, follow us on Twitter @500festival, or on Facebook.
SOURCE: News release from 500 Festival