Volunteer

Sign up to volunteer HERE!

It takes nearly 500 volunteers to keep the Mankato Marathon events running. From course marshals to water stations, packet pick-up to finish line volunteers, we have something for everyone.

Volunteers are such an integral part of the Mankato Marathon and we would like to thank everyone who has helped in the past.

All volunteers will receive a volunteer long sleeve shirt.

For information about general volunteering and cheer teams, contact us at marathon@visitmankatomn.com.

For information about the on course Bike Responders Team (first aid responders) please contact Tarena Wilkens at t2wilkens@gmail.com.

Volunteer Check in

All volunteers need to check in prior to their shift to pick up their information sheet and long sleeve shirt.

Friday, October 17th at the Scheels Wellness Expo at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center at the Volunteer Check-In booth from 10:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Those volunteering on Saturday, October 18th can check in during any of the above times or on Saturday from 5:30am – 8:00am at the information booth on the 500 block of South Front Street.

Volunteer FAQs

How do I sign up to volunteer?

If you have questions, please contact our staff via email at marathon@visitmankatomn.com or call our office at (507) 385-6640.

How many volunteers does it take to support the Mankato Marathon race weekend?

In a typical year, it takes nearly 500 people to support the approximately 4,000 participants that come for Mankato Marathon weekend.

What volunteer roles are available?

A variety of different roles are needed to help make our race weekend happen. A full list of available positions is visible in the volunteer registration.

Different roles require different skills and commitments from volunteers. If you have any questions, please contact our staff email at marathon@visitmankatomn.com so we can help find a volunteer position that best fits your skills.

What should I wear?

All volunteers will receive a volunteer shirt and it must be worn on the outermost layer.

IMPORTANT: The weather can be unpredictable. Please dress according to your job duty, and make sure you will be comfortable for the duration of your shift.

Do I need to bring anything when I volunteer?

Volunteers should not bring any personal items or valuables with them while they are volunteering. However, volunteers should bring what they need to take care of themselves for their shift (ie: extra snacks, jackets/layers, water etc).

What should I do if I need to cancel my volunteer shift?

If you are no longer able to fulfill your volunteer shift, please immediately contact our staff via email at marathon@visitmankatomn.com or call our office at (507) 385-6640.

It takes up to 500 volunteers to support the runners throughout the event weekend, so if you are able to find a replacement or help spread the word to others who may volunteer, we would greatly appreciate it!

Can children volunteer?

Yes! Families, teens, and youth are welcome to join the excitement by volunteering. HOWEVER, children under 13 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Cheer Teams

The Mankato Marathon is famous for its Cheer Teams, strategically placed throughout the course to cheer on runners at difficult times! Get your group or organization together and sign up to inspire runners, pump them up along the route and encourage them to make it to the finish line.

Sport Psych Team

The Center for Sport and Performance Psychology with Minnesota State University, Mankato leads a group of trained professionals who are mental performance consultants who provide participants with mental strategies and mental toughness tips to help runners reach their potential. Team members will be providing strategies to runners at the Expo, at the start of the race, and biking with runners (Psychs on Bikes). You will feel more mentally prepared, confident, and ready to reach your best. Look for people in matching yellow shirts that say “Sport Psych Team”.

Make a Difference

“I helped a guy who was cramping up by mile 17. He was in a lot of pain and honestly I didn’t think he’d finish. I gave him some of my water and rode next to him as he walked to the next water/medical station and chatted with him. Later I saw him at the finish line! I was so happy he made it, I ran over and high-fived him. He told me he wouldn’t have kept going if I didn’t help him.’”

– Kate Hansen, 2014 bike support crew

Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who helped make the 2018 Mankato Marathon such a success! We couldn’t have done it without you!