Any volunteers?

Niketown Bastille Day 5K Run, Walk and Block Party
July 10, West Loop (Jackson Blvd and Aberdeen St)
Lend a hand because Festival proceeds go to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, a local residential facility for abused and neglected children.
The good deed In true Chicago fashion, athletics are paired with hot dogs and beer. From 5–10pm, volunteers assist with race registration, dole out water to thirsty runners, route-marshal—keeping runners on the proper path—and collect donations at the block party.
Your reward Work the length of the party (bleh), but enjoy the free music, like all-girl band Cat Fight, and your own good karma.
Requirements A peppy attitude to cheer on those doing the real work: the runners.
Do it Contact Dianne at 773-868-3010 or Dianne@chicagoevents.com.

Let’s Pet Together Festival
July 20, Anti-Cruelty Society (157 W Grand St)
Lend a hand because Funds go to the Anti-Cruelty Society’s Age To Perfection program—a service that encourages folks to adopt an older (and wiser) pet.
The good deed Assist with dog and human games like the Dunkin’ Doggies pool party and the mini-golf course Putts for Pups; decorate the Anti-Cruelty Society’s roof for this year’s “Wooftop” theme; or man the refreshments.
Your reward You’ll work the entire event—but you can’t really call playing with pups “work.”
Requirements Complete an orientation offered on June 28.
Do it Call Darlene Duggan at 312-644-8338, ext 313.

Northalsted Market Days
August 9, 10; Halsted St between Belmont and Addison Sts
Lend a hand because Proceeds go to the Northalsted Area Merchants Association, which supports the Center on Halsted—the progressive LGBT hangout that offers recreational and social programs and medical resources.
The good deed This is the largest two-day fest in the Midwest, so there’s a lot of ground to cover. At one of the 17 gates, greet guests and hand out festival maps. Help vendors check in and set up.
Your reward Maneuver the 100,000-strong crowd for four- to five-hour shifts. Then you can revel in the gay entertainment, from the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus to Exposé.
Requirements When you’ve got a crowd including burly bears, six-foot-five queens, twinks, frat boys and suburban cougars, be prepared for anything.
Do it Contact Anna at Abashline@chicagoevents.com or 773-868-3010, ext 231.

Lollapalooza
August 1–3, in Grant Park (300 S Columbus Dr)
Lend a hand because Perry Ferrell’s massive music fest keeps Chicago blooming—and kids off the street—by giving money to Parkways Foundation, including last year’s whopping $1.1 million donation.
The good deed For four hours, you’re assigned to one of several positions: Assist the box-office staff, help folks navigate the huge and hard-to-handle-while-blitzed Grant Park; guide guests with physical limitations; ensure the tots at Kidzapalooza are safe; and encourage guests to recycle—yes, you might need to palm greasy, empty beer cups.
Your reward While putting in time, bob your head from afar to Radiohead, Wilco, the Black Keys, Lupe Fiasco and others. After your stint, you’re free to wander for the rest of the day.
Requirements Volunteers must be 18 or over and Chicagoland residents. The lucky chosen ones (not all apps are selected) receive an e-mail with an assigned volunteer position and directions for a possible orientation.
Do it Fill out an online application at Lollapalooza.com.

Estrojam
September 23–27, various locations
Lend a hand because Young Women’s Empowerment Project—a woman-run org dedicated to helping girls impacted by the sex trade—receives a chunk of the proceeds.
The good deed Gals organized this fest, but gents are welcome to volunteer. Assignments include stage help, merchandise sales, gear transportation, stage security, and checking-in artists and Estrojammers.
Your reward Work one event and receive free admission to another day’s shows. The concert lineups are yet to be announced, but last year’s included art-funk ensemble ESG and post-punk singer Kristin Hersh.
Requirements One mandatory training session takes place prior to the event, date TBA.
Do it E-mail Khyentse at khyentse@estrojam.org.