Those giant long-necked, long-legged racing birds are the stars of the annual Chandler Ostrich Festival. But the show couldn't go on without the 300-plus volunteers who work behind the scenes. Volunteer and you're in for a fun day that not only includes chariot races featuring the world's largest bird, but also shows featuring monkeys, reptiles, high-flying dogs, magic, cowboy trick ropers, musical entertainment and more.
You might even want to try a -- gulp -- ostrich burger.
The festival is March 9-11. Most volunteer shifts are about four hours long. Volunteers who work in beer sales must be 21 and older. Volunteer orientation has been tentatively scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Feb. 28-29 at the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, 25 S. Arizona Place, Suite 201.
You'll find the volunteer application at http://ostrichfestival.com/documents/Volunteer_Sign_Up_form.pdf.
For more information about volunteering or to sign up a large group of volunteers, call Universal Fairs at (901) 867-7007. For more information about the Chandler Ostrich Festival, visit http://www.ostrichfestival.com/.
• A Helping Hand is our weekly spotlight on a volunteer opportunity in the East Valley. Find other ways to help at www.volunteermatch.org.
