About Us

From its inception in 1965 to its leap into the 21st century, the Friends of the Kennedy Center volunteers have provided invaluable service to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts—eleven hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the year. The results of a Friends survey show that the Friends are a diverse, educated, and arts-loving group who impart a wonderful spirit of volunteerism and selfless participation that make them a model for the entire country.

When the Washington National Opera (WNO) became an affiliate of the Kennedy Center in July 2011, WNO volunteers joined forces with the Friends organization. For almost four decades, volunteers have been essential to the operation of the opera, and Friends volunteers will continue to utilize their talents to assist the opera in various capacities, such as auditions, the costume studio, transportation of artists, and the annual Opera in the Outfield.

The spirit of volunteerism is thriving at the Kennedy Center, proving that there are still many women and men who are willing to volunteer their time for the good of the community. In addition to the satisfaction of being able to contribute to this institution, our volunteers have a lot of fun as well!

Why Be a Friend?

Friends: Contributions and Rewards

Watch, listen, and learn about some of the benefits of being a Kennedy Center Friend!

"I have always loved the arts! My mother and brother are artists, and from an early age my mother exposed us to the arts. I also love the opportunity to volunteer for something I truly cherish. However, when I lived in my home country, Nigeria, there were very limited opportunities to volunteer in the arts. I now get to volunteer alongside remarkable people who are just as enthused to give tours and help others enjoy the arts and the Kennedy Center! Being able to give back through this renowned institution that promotes the performing arts is a wonderful privilege."
- Ada Ejiogu

“I studied piano and violin performance for many years and I am an active musician in the McLean Orchestra. With this background, I have developed a love of classical music and the performing arts. Volunteering at the Kennedy Center brings me close to that passion. It is this passion that spills over into my tours and allows me to make my excitement of the arts palpable to those who come for a complimentary tour. Also, who would not be enamored with the sheer beauty of the Kennedy Center? I am fortunate to be able to volunteer in one of DC's finest and most magnificent buildings.”
- Sean Forschler

Fabulous Benefits

Being a Friend of the Kennedy Center comes with its share of perks.

• Occasional ticket discounts and complementary ticket offers
• 30% discount at the KC Café
• 25% discount on all purchases in the Kennedy Center Gift Shops
• Use of the Kennedy Center employee canteen which offers a salad and sandwich bar, as well as reasonably-priced entrees
• $3 rate when volunteering or attending a performance at the Kennedy Center
• A subscription to FriendScript, our monthly newsletter

Requirements for Participation as an Active Friend

New volunteer orientations are held twice a year, generally in late March and September.

All qualified candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age and out of school.*
• Must be willing to commit to one year.
• Must be able to perform the required duties for preferred volunteer job.
• Must be willing to complete all aspects of the orientation and training cycle.
• Must be willing to commit to one weekly three or four hour shift of service.**

*We do not accept high school or college students for the regular Friends program. See our site for other volunteer opportunities.

**There is a special Flex schedule available —Friday afternoon through Monday evening — after six months on a regular shift.

Support the Friends

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