Volunteer With Us!

Want to be a part of the International Soap Box Derby Community? Volunteer opportunities are everywhere! We are always looking for energetic, dedicated individuals and groups to help with local (hometown) races, the World Championships in Akron, and various special events. With almost 80 locations in the United States, Canada and Japan, there is something for everyone. Check out the several ways you can get involved below.

Two men stand on a soap box derby track, posing for a photo. The track is lined with flags and stretches into the distance, surrounded by trees and grassy areas. The sky is clear and sunny. Both men are casually dressed in shorts and t-shirts.
A group of people in a brightly colored room stand around tables filled with blue and black bags. They are smiling and gesturing towards the bags. Various equipment and boxes are visible in the background.
Two smiling women stand together under a pavilion, one wearing a blue shirt and lanyard, the other in a gray shirt, holding a water bottle. Flags and trees are in the background, suggesting an outdoor sports event.
Three people assist a young person in a helmet sitting in a green soapbox car. Two adults in orange shirts, one wearing a cap, are providing guidance. A folding chair and grassy hill are visible in the background.
Corporate Volunteer Program

Take out time for your workday with your teammates to participate in some great community impact for the Soap Box Derby at Derby Downs! 

The Soap Box Derby Corporate Volunteer Program at Derby Downs offers companies a powerful way to give back while building stronger teams and meaningful community connections.  For employees, the experience goes beyond a typical volunteer day—working together at the historic Derby Downs fosters teamwork, pride, and a shared sense of purpose. For organizations, it’s an opportunity to align corporate values with a nationally recognized nonprofit, demonstrate community leadership, and make a visible, lasting impact in the lives of kids and families while preserving a legendary American tradition.

    My Team Wants to Help the Soap Box Derby!
    Event Volunteer Sign-Ups

    FirstEnergy all-american soap Box Derby

    Race Week | July 11-18, 2026

    Each July, Soap Box Derby Champions from around the globe earn a trip to Akron, Ohio to compete in the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby World Championships. We host a week of fun-filled events for Champs and their families culminating in the annual running of the World Championship Soap Box Derby races. To hold such a big event, we need volunteers throughout the week, and especially on the day of the World Championships, July 19. 

    I want to be a part of the all-american!

    OTHER Events at Derby Downs

    The ISBD hosts several events each year at Derby Downs in Akron, offering many volunteer opportunities at world headquarters. We’re working on our event calendar and keep adding to this list, so check back if you’re interested in helping.

    Gravity Racing Challenge Race Days | May 8 & May 10

    The International Soap Box Derby’s Gravity Racing Challenge® STEM Team Competition gives students in grades 3-12 the opportunity to compete in Soap Box Derby racing against other schools and youth organizations in Ohio and surrounding states. This spring, High schools race on Thurs., May 8 and grades 3-8 on Sat., May 10. All races are held at Derby Downs. 
    Learn more about the races and the GRC STEM program 

     

    derby downs 5k | july 11, 2026

    A legendary 5k returns to Derby Downs to kick off the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby!

     

    Senior Day | SeptEMBER 2026

    Senior Day is one of our most popular events – an annual fall fest at Derby Downs for the young at heart. Attendees get to ride down the hill and there is a senior wellness expo, lunch and live entertainment! Come spend a lovely September day with us as a volunteer and you’ll get the perks of the day, as well! Join our volunteer list to get updates on Senior Day as we closer to the day.

    I would like to help at one of the events at derby downs!