Each of ASAP's studios is staffed with a Teaching Artist, an Artist Assistant, and at least two Studio Assistants, but that is only the beginning of the ways ASAP puts volunteers to good use.

ALL program staff, whether paid or volunteer, are required to attend ASAP's child safety training and submit to a background check.  No exceptions.  Training and clearance must be repeated every two years.

Specific volunteer opportunities include, but are not limited to:

• Snack Coordinators
  Snack Coordinators plan and serve healthy snacks for fifty students each week of the session. They assist with planning and serving food at the closing reception (for 150 - 200 people) and may be involved with seeking donations of food and paper products.
• Table Host/Opening Activity Leaders
  New this fall, opening activities will take place at tables staffed by at least one adult Table Host. Table Hosts moderate an assigned activity for approximately six students. They lead by encouraging everyone to participate and work together, whether in a discussion, a team building exercise, or an art project.
• Artist Assistants
  Artist Assistants are responsible for the physical studio setting and for helping the Teaching Artists with each day's lesson. They arrive in the studio by 3:30 to set up and get ready for the kids, who check in after their opening activity. They assist the Teaching Artist in whatever ways necessary, then they stay in the studio to finish cleaning up after the kids leave.
• Studio Assistants
  Studio Assistants work in pairs and are the primary support to the students throughout their time at ASAP.  Many Studio Assistants will double as Table Hosts. As the opening activity concludes, two assistants from each studio escort their students to their assigned rooms. They support and encourage the kids during their lesson, and may opt to participate in the lesson themselves.
• Quiet Corner Counselors
  Everyone has a bad day once in awhile. Quiet Corner Counselors at ASAP intervene when a child is upset, disruptive, or behaving inappropriately. They take the child to a quiet area to calm down and they listen.
• Floaters and Subs
  We understand that because of travel and other obligations, not everyone can commit to 6 - 8 consecutive weeks of service. People also occasionally get sick and should not work around children, so need someone to fill their place for a day. Volunteering at ASAP does not have to be all-or-nothing: our roster of substitutes and floaters includes people who may be able to help some weeks but not others. ASAP is grateful for any time you are willing to give.
• Transportation Coordinators
  Transportation coordinators greet the buses as they arrive on site and check the students into the building. After studios, one volunteer bus rider accompanies the students on the bus back to their schools. Another volunteer drives to the final stop to pick up the bus rider. This position DOES NOT involve driving students — all transportation is provided by licensed and certified bus drivers with the Des Moines Public School Transportation Department.
• Office Assistants
  In addition to "in studio" volunteers, ASAP benefits from the day-to-day services of several individuals willing to lend their organizational and management skills to assist with program administration.

To volunteer with ASAP, or to learn more about ASAP volunteer opportunities, contact Michelle Bolton King at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 515-770-3380.