Team Captain Paula Martin shares pertinent information with volunteer ushers before the performance begins. (photo by Joy Perrie)
When you enter the doors to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, one of the very first people you meet will be a friendly greeter donning a blue vest. This is one of many volunteers who donate their time to create a welcoming patron experience at the Kauffman Center.
Volunteers share their skills and talents in a myriad of ways, all to support the Kauffman Center’s mission of providing diverse and extraordinary arts experiences through programs, customer service and education. Volunteers lead tours, take tickets, greet patrons, usher at performances and concerts, and assist with community outreach initiatives. Their contributions help foster unique experiences that entertain and educate tens of thousands of people each year. Last season, the Kauffman Center hosted hundreds of performances, concerts and events thanks to 480 volunteers who donated 49,334 hours in over 13,954 volunteer shifts. Of the 480 community volunteers, 286 have dedicated five or more years of service to the nonprofit organization.
“I have been volunteering at the Kauffman Center for 13 years and it never gets old. There is a natural joy in the Kauffman Center that comes from the patrons, staff and the volunteers that share the experience each time. But mostly, it’s the patrons that I greet and help find their way to an evening of wonderful entertainment. As a tour guide, it gives me the opportunity to share the remarkable story of the building with a variety of people.” — Phil Meiers, volunteer
During National Volunteer Week, volunteers are celebrated with exclusive backstage tours, treats and thank you notes provided by staff members and special events in the building. Throughout the year, Kauffman Center volunteers are recognized through the volunteer newsletter, social events and outings, milestone luncheons and recognition events.
“The Kauffman Center truly cares about people, both the volunteer group and the patrons. Happy volunteers mean happy patrons! Volunteering at the Kauffman Center is fun! You meet wonderful people, both those attending performances and those volunteering. The events at the Kauffman are world-class and are worth seeing, whether as a volunteer or a patron.” — Tony Jackowski, volunteer
Each season, community members interested in volunteering have the opportunity to apply for the apprentice program, which is the selection process and training program for new or returning volunteers.
Applicants admitted to the apprentice program will:
- Attend an in-person info session and complete a comprehensive background check.
- Participate in three in-person training classes covering the breadth of skills volunteers need to succeed at the Kauffman Center.
- Complete periodic online and in-person assessments.
- Volunteer for four guided usher shifts alongside veteran volunteers.
Those interested in applying for the 2025 – 2026 apprentice program are invited to visit kauffmancenter.org volunteer to learn more.
