Bob Telmosse Foundation
Volunteer Hub
44th Annual Christmas Giveaway
Saturday, December 19, 2026
Colorado Springs Event Center
3960 Palmer Park Blvd. (at Academy Blvd.)
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
9:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.
Anyone waiting in line by 3:00 PM will be accommodated.
Everything you need to know before and during your volunteer shift.
Welcome Volunteers
Thank you for being part of the 44th Annual Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway!It takes a lot of hands — and a whole lot of heart — to make Giveaway Day happen. Whether this is your first year volunteering or you’ve been part of this tradition for years, we’re glad you’re here.This Volunteer Hub is your one-stop place for everything you need before Giveaway Day. You’ll find event information, maps, parking details, volunteer station instructions, waiver information, FAQs, and more.Use the links below to jump directly to what you need, and be sure to review your station information before your shift.Just People Helping People.
Before You Arrive
Complete Your Volunteer Waiver: All volunteers must have a completed waiver. Volunteers under 18 also need parent/guardian approval. Complete your waiver online before the event whenever possible to help speed up check-in.Double-Check Your Shift: Confirm your volunteer date, arrival time, and assigned station before heading to the Event Center.Know Where You’re Going: Review the Maps & Parking section before you arrive for volunteer parking, the Volunteer Entrance location, and event maps.Know Your Station: Take a few minutes to review the instructions for your assigned station so you know what to expect when you arrive.What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended—you’ll be on your feet and may do quite a bit of walking. Festive holiday attire is welcome!Volunteer Hours: If you need verification of volunteer hours, let the Volunteer Check-In/Check-Out team know.Questions? Have a question about volunteering? We’re happy to help!
QUICK LINKS
Find Your Volunteer Position
Select your volunteer area below for quick instructions, responsibilities, and helpful information for your shift.
WORKING WITH FAMILIES
GIVEAWAY AREAS
EVENT SUPPORT
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Volunteer Sign-Up
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Ready to join us?Choose a volunteer opportunity below to learn more about the position and sign up for a shift.Be sure to sign the waiver on the Home Page after you sign up!Signing up for more than one shift? Please double-check the dates and times to make sure your volunteer shifts do not overlap. If you are signing up for someone else, please use their name and contact information.
WORKING WITH FAMILIES
GIVEAWAY AREAS
EVENT SUPPORT
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Family Hosts
Your RoleAs a Family Host, you’ll escort one family at a time through the Giveaway and help guide them through each area in order. You’ll stay with the children as they make their selections and help keep everyone together throughout their visit.Family Hosts do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Remember that the children you are hosting are in your care while moving through the children-only areas. Area volunteers and supervisors will be available to help along the way.
Your Route Through the Giveaway
1. Books
Each child selects one book. Parents/guardians generally remain outside the area, except when selecting for a child age 0–3.2. Stuffed Animals
Help each child select a stuffed animal. The number and size allowed may change throughout the day based on inventory, so follow the current instructions from the area volunteers.Parents/guardians generally remain outside the area, except when selecting for a child age 0–3.3. Toys
Toys are organized by age groups: 0–3, 4–7, 8–13, and 14–18. Stay with the children you are hosting while they make their selections. Age groups are guidelines, so another area may be used when it offers a more appropriate toy, while still following minimum-age recommendations on individual items.4. Olivia’s Corner
The children in the family work together to choose one gift for someone special in their lives. After choosing, take the gift to the wrapping area.5. Bikes
2026 instructions coming soon.
Important Things to Remember
• Stay with your family. You are responsible for keeping track of the children you are hosting while moving through the children-only areas. If needed, take children through an area one at a time rather than allowing anyone to wander unsupervised.• Adults generally wait outside children-only areas. Parents/guardians may enter areas when selecting for children ages 0–3. Accommodations may also be made for older children with special needs when appropriate.• Ask for help. Area volunteers and supervisors are there to assist you. If you’re a first-time Host and are unsure, you can ask to be paired with an experienced Host or start with a smaller family.• Finish with your current family. If your shift is nearing its end, complete the trip with the family you are currently hosting before leaving.
Quick Host FAQ
Do I need to carry a family’s items to their vehicle?
No. Exit Attendants will be available to help families with their items.What if the goodie bag gets full?
Small families receive one clear bag and larger families receive two. Additional bags may be requested if needed, but please don’t use a separate bag for every child.Can I take a break if I’m hosting multiple shifts?
Yes. Take a few minutes to eat, get a drink, use the restroom, or rest before returning for your next family.What if I need to leave early?
Finish assisting your current family and let Volunteer Check-Out know when you leave so the team has an accurate count of active Hosts.What if I’m unsure what to do?
Ask an Area Supervisor for help. First-time Hosts can also ask to start with a smaller family or be paired with someone who has hosted before.NOTE: Signing Up as a Family or Group?
If your family or group plans to host together and can escort only one recipient family at a time, please complete ONE Family Host signup for your entire group.Each signup represents one Host/team, not one individual volunteer. Please do not sign up each group member separately, as this would incorrectly count your group as multiple available Hosts.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Book Area
Your RoleHelp children select a book, keep the tables organized, and replenish books throughout the event as needed.What You Need to KnowEach child may select one book. Parents/guardians generally remain outside the Book Area unless they are selecting for a child age 0–3. Exceptions are also made for special-needs children who cannot select a gift themselves.Keep a smaller selection of books displayed rather than putting everything out at once. This makes choosing less overwhelming for children and leaves inventory available to replenish throughout the day.If you are working the final shift, you’ll also help pack and organize the remaining books.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Stuffed Animal Area
Your RoleHelp children select a stuffed animal, keep the area organized, and replenish the selection throughout the event.What You Need to KnowParents/guardians generally remain outside the area, except when selecting for a child age 0–3.Many Family Hosts will be assisting more than one child, so watch for children who may need extra help. Ask what kind of stuffed animal they would like and guide them toward a few choices.The number and size of stuffed animals allowed may change throughout the day as inventory is depleted. Check with the Area Supervisor at the beginning of your shift for the current selection guidelines.Please help make sure children remain supervised and return to their Family Host after making their selection.If you are working the final shift, you’ll also help pack and organize the remaining stuffed animals.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Toy Area
Your RoleHelp children choose an age-appropriate toy, keep the area organized, and help track selections throughout the Giveaway.What You Need to KnowToys are organized into four age groups: 0–3, 4–7, 8–13, and 14–18. Family Hosts accompany children through the Toy Area while parents/guardians generally remain outside, except when selecting for a child age 0–3 or when an accommodation is needed.After a child selects a toy, their red wristband should be removed and placed in the designated collection container. These wristbands are used to track the number of toys distributed, so it’s important that they are collected.Volunteers may rotate between helping children make selections, keeping toys organized and replenished, and collecting wristbands. Follow the Area Supervisor’s direction for where help is needed during your shift.If you are working the final shift, you’ll also help organize and pack the remaining toys.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Olivia’s Corner
Your RoleHelp children choose a special gift for someone in their life, keep the area organized, and help make the experience fun and meaningful for them.What You Need to KnowIn Olivia’s Corner, the children in each family work together to select ONE gift for someone special in their lives. Adults are not permitted in this area because the gift is intended to remain a surprise.Help children look through the available gifts and make their selection. Please allow children to choose for themselves without coaching or directing them toward a particular gift.If a parent or guardian does not want their child to enter the area behind the curtain, an alternate prepacked gift will be provided.Once the child has chosen a gift, direct or assist them to the wrapping area, where the gift will be wrapped and the child can choose wrapping paper and sign the gift tag.Volunteers may help children select gifts, keep items organized and replenished, wrap gifts, or assist with other needs in the area as directed by the Area Supervisor.If you are working the final shift, you’ll also help organize and pack the remaining items.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Surplus Area
Your RoleHelp organize, display, and distribute the variety of donated items available in the Surplus Area.What You Need to KnowThe Surplus Area may include donated items such as clothing, pre-owned toys, blankets, household items, and holiday décor. Available items will vary depending on donations received.Keep items organized and displayed so families can easily see what is available. Restock items as needed and help monitor distribution throughout your shift.Clothing racks belong to the Bob Telmosse Foundation and should remain in the Surplus Area.If you are working the final shift, you’ll also help consolidate and pack the remaining items.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Food Bag Station
Your RoleHelp hand out food bags to families, collect the appropriate wristbands, and keep the station stocked and organized throughout the Giveaway.What You Need to KnowEach adult with a green wristband may receive one food bag. After handing out the food bag, remove the green wristband and place it in the designated collection container.Keep food bags stocked and ready for families so they can move through the area efficiently. Volunteers may help hand out food bags, collect wristbands, or replenish the tables as needed.Follow the Area Supervisor’s direction throughout your shift and help keep the area organized as inventory changes.If you are working the final shift, you’ll also help organize and pack up the remaining supplies.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Coats & Winter Items
Your RoleHelp hand out donated coats and winter items to families and keep the area organized while supplies are available.What You Need to KnowCoats and winter items are offered outside the Event Center beginning at 7:30 AM and continue while supplies last. Because inventory may be depleted quickly, this volunteer area may only operate for a short period of time.Follow the Area Supervisor’s direction regarding available inventory and distribution throughout your shift.Volunteers who are available on Friday may also be asked to help organize and prepare coats and winter items for Saturday’s Giveaway.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Volunteer Entrance & Check-In / Check-Out
Your RoleWhat You Need to KnowWhere to Enter:
The Volunteer Entrance on event day is located at the rear of the building by the long ramp.Table 1 — Sign In / Sign Out
Your name will be listed under the area you signed up for (Toys, Books, etc.). Your shift start time will also be listed.
If the sign-in sheet does not show that you completed your waiver online, you will be directed to Table 2.
Large Groups: If you are part of a large group that did not provide individual volunteer names, there will be a separate sign-in/sign-out sheet where you will write in your name for your shift.Table 2 — Waiver:
Turn in your printed waiver here if you brought one. If you did not complete a waiver online, you will be able to complete a paper waiver here.
If your waiver has already been completed and is on file, proceed to Table 3.Table 3 — Name Tags:
Write your first name on your name tag.
Please place your name tag near your shoulder so it is easily visible.Table 4 — Bob Telmosse Button:
You will receive a Bob Telmosse button to wear while volunteering.
The button identifies you as a volunteer and should be worn near your shoulder at all times while you are in the building.
You may keep the button as a souvenir when your shift is over. If you do not want to keep it, you may return it to the check-in desk when you check out.Maps & Questions:
Maps of the venue will be available at the check-in area.If you have questions about where you are assigned or how to get there, please ask!
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Floaters
Your RoleHelp wherever you’re needed most! Floaters provide extra support throughout the Giveaway by filling gaps and assisting areas that become especially busy.What You Need to KnowFloaters may be assigned to different areas throughout their shift depending on where additional help is needed. You may assist with restocking, organizing, moving supplies, directing volunteers or families, or providing extra support to a busy station.Because needs can change throughout the day, flexibility is an important part of this role. Be prepared to move between areas and take on different tasks as directed.Floaters must be at least 16 years old.Check with the Volunteer Coordinator or Area Supervisor for your assignment and let them know when you are available for another task.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Donation Assistance
Your RoleHelp receive, organize, and move donations arriving during the Giveaway so items can quickly get where they are needed.What You Need to KnowHelp unload donations as they arrive and deliver items to the appropriate area of the Event Center.This role may involve frequent walking, lifting, carrying, and moving donated items throughout your shift. Volunteers may also help organize incoming donations and keep receiving areas clear as new items arrive.Volunteers may also help other volunteer areas bring supplies and items into the Event Center as needed.Follow the Area Supervisor’s direction for where donations should be delivered and where additional help is needed.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Volunteer Food
Your RoleHelp prepare, serve, and maintain food and beverages for the volunteers who are helping make the Giveaway possible.What You Need to KnowHelp set up and serve food and beverages for volunteers throughout the event. This may include preparing serving areas, making coffee, setting out donated food and drinks, and keeping items stocked as needed.Keep the volunteer food area clean and organized throughout your shift and help make sure supplies are available as volunteers rotate through for breaks.Follow the Area Supervisor’s direction based on what food and beverages are available that day.If you are working the final shift, you’ll also help clean the area, wipe down tables, and pack up remaining food and supplies.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Exit & Holding Area
Your RoleHelp families safely get their items to their vehicles and assist with storing and retrieving larger items that need to be held while families complete the Giveaway.What You Need to KnowExit Attendants help families carry toys, food bags, bikes, and other items to their vehicles. Families may bring their vehicle closer to the exit for loading, but vehicles should not block traffic or the exit area.Holding Area volunteers help manage larger or bulky items that families cannot easily carry through the Giveaway. Make sure items are properly tagged and only release them when the family presents the matching ticket.This role may involve frequent walking, lifting, carrying, and moving items both inside and outside the Event Center.Because this position involves assisting families in the parking lot, volunteers must be at least 16 years old.Follow the Area Supervisor’s direction throughout your shift and help keep the exit and holding areas organized and clear.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Recipient Admission
Your RoleHelp welcome families into the Giveaway, provide the appropriate wristbands, and accurately track the number of adults and children attending.What You Need to KnowEach child entering the Giveaway receives a red wristband. One adult per family receives a green wristband for the Food Bag Station.Accurately count all adults and children entering the Giveaway so attendance numbers can be tracked throughout the event.Help provide Family Hosts with the bags they will use while accompanying families through the Giveaway. Volunteers who can assist Spanish-speaking families may also be asked to help when needed.Keep the admission process organized and moving smoothly, and follow the Area Supervisor’s direction throughout your shift.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Recipient Entrance
Your RoleHelp welcome families as they enter the Giveaway and keep the entrance flowing safely and smoothly.What You Need to KnowMonitor the flow of families entering the Event Center and help keep the entrance organized as the line moves inside.Keep the entrance door closed when appropriate while families are being admitted and help prevent congestion around the doorway.As the line begins to taper off, watch for individuals who may attempt to enter the Giveaway more than once.Follow the Area Supervisor’s direction throughout your shift and communicate any questions or concerns as they arise.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Thursday Setup Crew
Your RoleHelp prepare the Colorado Springs Event Center for Saturday’s Christmas Giveaway by setting up and organizing the different event areas.What You Need to KnowSetup volunteers help transform the Event Center into the Christmas Giveaway! Tasks may include unloading and moving supplies, setting up tables and event areas, organizing donated items, and helping prepare stations for Saturday.Assignments may vary depending on what needs to be completed, so be prepared to help in different areas throughout your shift.This role may involve walking, lifting, carrying, and moving supplies. If you have a cart or wagon, you are welcome to bring it to help move supplies.Follow the Event Coordinator or Area Supervisor’s direction for where help is needed.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
Friday Setup Crew
Your RoleHelp continue preparing the Colorado Springs Event Center for Saturday’s Christmas Giveaway by organizing, stocking, and completing final setup throughout the event areas.What You Need to KnowFriday volunteers help complete the final preparations for the Christmas Giveaway. Tasks may include organizing and stocking event areas, arranging donated items, moving supplies, and helping make sure stations are ready for families and volunteers on Saturday.Assignments may vary depending on what still needs to be completed, so be prepared to help in different areas throughout your shift.This role may involve walking, lifting, carrying, and moving supplies. If you have a cart or wagon, you are welcome to bring it to help move supplies.Follow the Event Coordinator or Area Supervisor’s direction for where help is needed.
Already signed up? Use this page for day-of instructions.
VOLUNTEER WAIVER
All volunteers must have a completed waiver on file for the Christmas Giveaway. Volunteers under 18 also require parent/guardian approval.Online waiver deadline: Thursday, December 17, 2026Waivers submitted online by the deadline will be noted on the volunteer check-in list. If we have not received your waiver by December 17, you’ll need to complete one when you arrive for your shift.Completing your waiver online before the event will help speed up the volunteer check-in process.
EVENT OVERVIEW
The Bob Telmosse Christmas GiveawayThe Bob Telmosse Foundation Christmas Giveaway is an annual community event that provides toys, books, stuffed animals, bicycles, food and other donated items to local families during the holiday season.The 44th Annual Christmas Giveaway will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2026, from 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at the Colorado Springs Event Center, 3960 Palmer Park Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80909.Volunteer Family Hosts escort families through the Giveaway venue, visiting different areas throughout the Event Center. Volunteers serve in a variety of roles to help keep the event organized, welcoming, and moving smoothly throughout the day.Whether you’re checking in volunteers, helping at a station, hosting a family, handing out items or working behind the scenes, every role contributes to making Giveaway Day possible.Just People Helping People.
RECIPIENT INFORMATION
Volunteers may receive questions from families prior to and throughout Giveaway Day. The information below provides a quick reference for some of the most common questions.
Event Hours
9:00 AM–3:00 PM. Anyone waiting in line by 3:00 PM will be accommodated.Registration
No advance registration is required.Children
Children ages 0–18 must be present to receive items. Parents or caregivers may select items for children ages 0–3.Giveaway Items
Children may select a book, stuffed animal and age-appropriate toy. Families also receive a bag of food. All items are available while supplies last.Wait Times
Families wait outside until space is available inside the Event Center. Wait times can be several hours during busy periods and are generally shorter in the afternoon.Dress for the Weather
Please dress appropriately for the weather. Wait times outside can be long, especially during busy periods.Once Inside
Most families take approximately 45–60 minutes to move through the Giveaway once inside, although this may vary depending on family size, attendance, and the availability of Family Hosts to escort families.Surplus Area
Additional donated items such as clothing, shoes, housewares and other goods may be available in the Surplus Area.Parking
Free parking is available at the Center.Transportation
A bus stop is located on Academy Boulevard in front of the Event Center.Important:
If you are unsure how to answer a recipient’s question or handle a situation, please ask your Area Supervisor or Event Coordinator rather than guessing.Questions?
Have a question about the Giveaway? Please contact [email protected]
MAPS & PARKING
MAPS & PARKINGEvent Location
Colorado Springs Event Center
3960 Palmer Park Blvd.
Colorado Springs, CO 80909THURSDAY & FRIDAY SETUP VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers helping with setup on Thursday or Friday should park in front of the Event Center and use the front entrance.SATURDAY — GIVEAWAY DAY
The parking and entrance information below applies to Saturday, December 19th.Volunteers should try to park in the rear of the building, as the Volunteer Entrance is located in the back.Do not park in spaces designated for tenants of the nearby building. The towing policy is enforced.If there are no available spaces in the rear, try to park near the “alley” that connects the two parking lots so you can walk to the Volunteer Entrance without having to walk around the building.Important: You will not be able to enter the building through the front door. This area will be very congested with recipient waiting lines both outside and inside.Please allow yourself enough time to park, walk to the Event Center and check in before your scheduled shift begins.Volunteer Entrance
The Volunteer Entrance on event day is located at the rear of the building by the long ramp. Once inside, you will see the volunteer check-in station with multiple tables.Important: Volunteers should not use the front entrance. The front entrance will be congested with recipient waiting lines, and volunteers will not be able to enter through those lines.Event Maps
Indoor and outdoor event maps will be added here as they become available.
VOLUNTEER STATIONS
VOLUNTEER STATIONSEach volunteer station plays an important role in keeping Giveaway Day organized and moving smoothly.Select your assigned station below to review information about your role, what to expect and any station-specific instructions before your shift.Station instructions are being updated for the 2026 Christmas Giveaway. Please check back before Giveaway Day for the most current information.
VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENTS
More Information Coming Soon
FAQs
Do I need to complete a volunteer waiver?
Yes. All volunteers must have a completed waiver on file. Online waivers must be submitted by Thursday, December 17. If your waiver has not been received by the deadline, you’ll need to complete one when you arrive for your shift.What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended since you’ll be on your feet and may do quite a bit of walking. Festive holiday attire is welcome!Can I get verification of my volunteer hours?
Yes. Let the Volunteer Check-In/Check-Out team know if you need verification of your volunteer hours.What if I have a question about volunteering before the event?
Contact the Volunteer Team at [email protected]
NOVEMBER HELPERS
You don’t have to wait until December to lend a hand...AREAS WHERE WE NEED HELP?
• Distributing posters and recipient information
• Organizing collection drives (toys, food, clothing, etc.)
• Dropping off / collecting donation boxesOTHER WAYS YOU CAN HELP?These are items that we need at the event. Any donations are most welcome.Olivia's Corner•Gift wrap
•Bows — new or recycled, but in good shape and not crushed
•Gift tags — any size, but larger ones are good for multiple names
•Scissors — small to mid-size
•Clear tape
•Small gift boxes
•Curling ribbonSurplus Area
•Clothing rack
•Good-condition clothing and shoes
•Christmas items
•Cooking utensilsVolunteer Food Court•Paper plates
•Prepackaged snacks
•Bottled water
•Sodas / hydration drinks (Raising Cane’s is providing lemonade and iced tea)
•Ice (day-of)
•Gift cards to pre-purchase food for volunteers working on event day
•Donations of premade food for volunteers.Volunteer Food Court CoordinaorWant to take the lead? We’re looking for someone to help coordinate food and refreshments for volunteers on Giveaway Day.The coordinator would help organize donated food, drinks, snacks, and other refreshments and help make sure supplies are where they need to be.Interested in taking the lead? Email [email protected] and let us know!If you can help in any way, please send an email to [email protected] and let us know how you would like to participate. Thank You!
BEOFRE YOU GO....THANK YOU
Every book handed to a child, every bicycle that finds a new rider, every bag of food given to a family, and every smile shared on Giveaway Day happens because people are willing to show up and help.Some volunteers spend months preparing. Others give us a few hours on Giveaway Day. Every role matters.Thank you for giving your time, your energy and a little bit of your Christmas spirit to help make the day special for families in our community.We couldn’t do it without you.From all of us at the Bob Telmosse Foundation — thank you for helping us Color Christmas With Kindness.
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