Free Geek is almost entirely volunteer-based; in fact, we have over 700 volunteers. You don't need computer experience; we'll teach you everything you need to know. If you have skills, that's great too!

HOW DO I START?

All volunteers are required to complete an orientation before they start volunteering. Orientations happen at Free Geek Wednesday and Saturday at 4:00 sharp, and take about 45 min. Please arrive at our phone desk by 4pm so we can start on time. You don't need to phone ahead for an orientation; just show up.

WHEN CAN I VOLUNTEER?

Volunteers come in from Tuesday to Saturday. You will be able to volunteer when it's convenient for you; just let us know so we can put you on the schedule. You don't have to volunteer the same day all the time, or a set number of hours per month. We're flexible, and just happy you want to help out.

HOW DO I GET A FREE COMPUTER?

If you need a computer, you can get into our Computer Adoption Program. Basically, after you accumulate 24 hours of time helping out at Free Geek, you get a free refurbished desktop computer (system, monitor, mouse, keyboard and speakers). We call this computer a GeekBox; it will be running Ubuntu Linux and come with all the programs you need to do most everything. We also give you a class on how to use it, as well as ongoing technical support. Just let us know at your orientation that you want to be enrolled in the Adoption Program.

Please note that you can't volunteer for parts. Adoption computers are standard desktop systems only; we are unable to customize them. If there are additional things you need (like a printer, or more RAM, etc) you will get a discount in the Computer Thrift Store. (Please note: laptops cannot be adopted as we don't get enough for everyone to have one.)

I WANT TO VOLUNTEER BUT I DON'T NEED A COMPUTER.

That's great! Just let us know at your orientation. We'll still keep track of your hours for our statistics.

WHAT DO VOLUNTEERS DO?

There are a wide variety of things we need help with. No computer experience is necessary. If you have computer skills we can certainly use your help as well.

Priorities change from day-to-day at Free Geek. But we need regular help testing, sorting, dismantling and refurbishing equipment, dealing with incoming gear, as well as some administrative work and organising. Believe it or not, many of these activities can be done by people new to computers, with a little support. If you would like to contribute skills like programming or teaching, please let us know. 

Most importantly, we need you to have fun while you're here! We have a wide variety of people at Free Geek, with different strengths, backgrounds and abilities. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding accessibility.

I STILL HAVE QUESTIONS!