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.
FirstEnergy soap Box Derby World Championships
Race Week | July 13-19, 2025
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. Fill out a volunteer contact form to let us know if you’re interested in learning more. We will issue official forms in the spring.
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
Senior Day | May 22 & Sept. 25
Senior Day is so popular, we’re going to do it twice a year! Active older adults (approx. 55 and older) relive their youth at the International Soap Box Derby with a thrilling ride on the Derby Downs track. We’re still ironing out details, but the dates are set. More info to come!
Local races near you
There are close to 80 race locations in the ISBD network across the country, in Canada and Japan. And they all need volunteers, too! Each of these locations (including ones in Akron and NEO) run their own, volunteer-led, local, rally, STEM/GRC, and Super Kids races throughout the year, leading up to the World Championships in July. The ISBD network and the annual events at Derby Downs are only possible because of the amazing volunteers planning, directing, fundraising, and holding these races, and you could be a part of it!
If you’re interested, check out our list of race city locations to find the closest one to you. Contact the race director to learn about their volunteer needs and opportunities.
Stay Up to Date
Subscribe to our newsletter and/or register as an official ISBD volunteer. Either way, you’ll stay up to date on volunteer opportunities at the ISBD.
(Be sure to check Volunteer/Volunteer opportunities when signing up for the newsletter.)
Need Community Service Hours?
Are you looking for Community Service hours for high school, college or a community organization you belong to? The ISBD is a great way to complete your requirements and have fun doing it! More information coming soon!