Every great swim takes a great crew — on shore, on the water, and behind the scenes. As a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit, MOWSA relies on its community to keep events safe, affordable, and accessible to more swimmers every year. Volunteers make MOWSA open water swims possible.

Contents

1. Why volunteer with MOWSA?

2. Ways to volunteer

3. Annual event support opportunitities

4. Volunteer incentives

5. What we value in our volunteers

6. How to get involved

Open water swimming is more than an individual sport — it’s a community effort. Whether you paddle, cheer, guard, or organize, you’re helping swimmers safely experience something extraordinary.

• 🛶 Be Part of the Adventure — You’ll witness incredible swims and get to spend a day on the beach or on the water.

• 💙 Build Community — Join a supportive, welcoming group of swimmers, kayakers, and water lovers.

• 🧭 Learn and Lead — Gain hands-on experience in event logistics, water safety, and teamwork.

• 🌊 Give Back to the Sport — Your time directly supports our mission to expand safe, inclusive open water swimming in New England.

Behind The Scenes

Join the organizational side of MOWSA to strengthen our community year-round.

• Marketing and Communications

• Fundraising and Sponsorship

• Event Planning

• Governance and Leadership (Board and Committees)

MOWSA relies on volunteers for every aspect of our events and operations. You can help once a season or dive in year-round — every role makes a difference.

• Jim Doty Memorial Swim (half day – early June)

• Boston Light Swim (full day – early August)

• Egg Rock Scramble (half day – mid-September)

Your time and dedication are what keep MOWSA’s swims safe and successful — and we want to thank you meaningfully.

🎽 One Event

• MOWSA Volunteer T-shirt (standard issue)

• Our sincere thanks and recognition in event communications

🌊 Two Events

• Free entry to the Doty Memorial Swim OR

• $75 off any other MOWSA swim (group or solo)

💫 Three Events or More

• Free Doty Memorial Swim OR $75 off any other MOWSA swim (group or solo)

• Invitation to an exclusive MOWSA test event — a unique group swim experience reserved for our most active volunteers

Incentives can be used in the current or next season, and volunteering credits may be combined with other earned credits (like observing).

We welcome all who share our love for open water and our values of:

• 🤝 Reliability: Our swimmers count on us — showing up matters.

• 💬 Communication: Be responsive and clear with organizers and teammates.

• 🩵 Supportiveness: We celebrate every swimmer, every time.

• 🌈 Inclusivity: Respect and encourage swimmers of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.

• 🧭 Openness to Direction: We work as a team and value feedback.

• 🌊 Safety First: Whether on shore or on the water, we prioritize the wellbeing of every participant — whether swimmer, crew, or volunteer.

Step 1: Complete our Volunteer Interest Form

Step 2: We’ll reach out with opportunities that match your skills and interests.

Step 3: Attend a brief volunteer orientation (virtual or in person).

Step 4: Join us on the water — and be part of the MOWSA crew!