Become a WTTW Pledge Volunteer
Frequently Asked Questions

When are WTTW's Pledge Drives?

WTTW11 hosts its quarterly pledge drives in March, June, September and December.

Where are the WTTW Studios?

5400 N St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60625
773-583-5000
View Map and Driving Directions

Is there parking?

Free parking is available in the WTTW parking lot.

What is the minimum age for volunteering?

All participants must be at least 16 years of age. Organizations that have youth members must supply a chaperone and can volunteer during any shift time. Youth individuals may volunteer, but can do so only during the morning and/or afternoon shifts because of curfew laws.

If my organization is volunteering, how many people can we bring?

The WTTW11 Pledge Studio holds a maximum of 35 volunteers. Groups can range in size from 10-35. We ask group coordinators to guarantee a minimum of ten people per group.

Can High School groups volunteer?

High school group participation is welcomed. All students must be 16 years of age or older and school groups must supply at least one chaperone for every ten students.

Historically, groups have included National Honor Societies, broadcasting classes, journalism classes, and senior class groups. Students can earn service learning hours for the time they volunteer.

Is there a dress code?

Business casual dress is preferred. Shirts with company or group logos are acceptable in any color but white (white clothing causes a glare on camera). Please do not wear anything bearing endorsement for a controversial issue or political candidate. For groups, company shirts are welcome but please avoid group hats. It can get chilly in the studio, so we recommend bringing a sweater or jacket.

If my organization is volunteering, will we be recognized?

Groups of ten or more will receive three on-air mentions during their Pledge shift. Your group name will be read verbally and your group name will appear on screen. Unfortunately we cannot display company/group banners on the set.

When is the volunteer schedule updated?

Our pledge schedule is updated with specific dates approximately six weeks prior to each drive. You may pre-register and you will be notified of any shift availability.

After selecting shifts, when do I receive a confirmation?

WTTW receives many requests to volunteer from individuals and groups alike. We schedule on a first-come, first serve basis, depending on group size and special needs. We make every effort to update our posted schedule and assign shifts that are most appropriate for each request. Confirmations and follow-up usually occur three –four weeks in advance of each drive.

Will meals be served?

Weekend mornings:
Breakfast pastries and coffee are served.

Weekend afternoons:
Light food service and vending machines are available.

All evenings:
Catered food and vending machines are available.

Can we tour the studios?

WTTW will endeavor to have a tour guide available during all pledge shifts. Tours can be taken in between pledge breaks. If a pledge shift is extremely busy this feature is not always possible.

How do I sign up?

Find out more about individual volunteer opportunities or about bringing in a group of volunteers to help answer phones.

For more information, please contact us at (773) 509-5559 or volunteer@wttw.com.