Volunteers

Now Accepting Volunteer Applications for Summer 2026!

 

The Varsity Cinema is operated by the non-profit Des Moines Film, dedicated to providing inclusive, impactful film experiences and growing a diverse artistic community. Volunteers play a vital role in achieving those goals! We are currently seeking volunteers for the following positions: 

Summer Camp Teaching Assistant

Summer 2026 is the first year of our expanded education program and excitement is high! We are seeking creative, film loving teaching assistants to help with our busiest weeks of summer camp. Each camp runs in the morning, Monday to Friday with an open house capstone on Friday morning. Volunteers are welcome to sign up for a full week, multiple weeks, or a few days–we are flexible! 

We are currently seeking volunteer teaching assistants for the following weeks: 

• • Passport Cinema (Grades 4-5, July 27-31)
  • Stop Motion Animation Fundamentals (Grades 6-8, July 6-10)
  • Stop Motion Animation Fundamentals (Grades 6-8, August 10-14)
  • Stop Motion Animation Fundamentals (Grades 6-8, August 3-7)

Responsibilities

• • Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
  • Lead breakout activities or small groups. 
  • Supervise small groups during craft construction or set building. Guide participants through the creative process. 
  • Assist the lead instructor with set-up and tear-down. 
  • Assist with morning check-in and check-out. 
  • Supervise high school volunteers as available. 

Requirements

• • Be at least 18 years of age. 
  • Pass a criminal background check. 
  • Adhere to the Des Moines Film Code of Conduct. 
  • Prior experience working with youth desired!

 

To apply as a Summer Camp Teaching Assistant, please submit an application here. 

 

High School Camp Counselors

We are seeking motivated, creative high school students to serve as camp counselors during our elementary and middle school summer programming. This is your opportunity to share your love of film and and earn Silver Cord hours if approved by your school!

We prefer that camp counselors commit to an entire week of camp (or more) to maintain continuity and community throughout the week. We are currently seeking volunteer camp counselors for the following weeks: 

• • Passport Cinema (Grades 4-5, July 27-31)
  • Stop Motion Animation Fundamentals (Grades 6-8, July 6-10)
  • Stop Motion Animation Fundamentals (Grades 6-8, August 10-14)
  • Stop Motion Animation Fundamentals (Grades 6-8, August 3-7)

Responsibilities

• • Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
  • Be a role model for campers, demonstrating camp appropriate behaviors.  
  • Lead breakout activities or small groups. 
  • Assist participants during craft construction or set building. 
  • Assist instructors with set-up and tear-down.

Requirements 

• • Be between 14-18 years of age. 
  • If age 18, must pass a criminal background check.
  • Adhere to the Des Moines Film Code of Conduct. 
  • Prior experience working with youth desired!

 

To apply as a High School Camp Counselor, please submit an application here. 

Benefits

We are filled with gratitude for our dedicated supporters throughout the community, especially those who volunteer their time and talents. Volunteers in good standing are eligible for free tickets, discounted concessions, and more!

Apply to Volunteer!

To apply for our summer 2026 volunteer positions, please submit an application here. 

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Varsity Cinema, please email team@desmoinesfilm.org.