Volunteering for ICO Rafting
Thank you for your interest in volunteering for ICO Rafting! Applications to join our 2026 guide training class are open until April 15, 2026. You may apply by downloading the application and emailing it to volunteer@icorafting.org.
ICO conducts participant trips nearly every weekend, June through September. A typical trip takes place over the course of a weekend, with two full days of rafting, and one or two nights of camping near the river. In the Spring we make a schedule of participant trips for the whole season. Once the schedule is available, volunteers sign up for the trips for which they wish to volunteer. Each trip and participant group are different, and the details are coordinated by the ICO Trip Leader.
How to Become an ICO Volunteer
ICO looks to replenish its ranks every year with new volunteers. We're looking for anyone, 14 years old or older, who is committed to our mission of sharing the outdoors with others. No experience is necessary. We provide all the necessary training.
Because of the seasonal nature of whitewater rafting, and the resources required to train new volunteers, we only accept new volunteers once a year. Space is limited in our training program, so there is an application process. Our application for 2026 is available now, and due April 15, 2026.
New volunteers are required to participate in our Basic Training program. In 2026 we are offering a Basic Training session in the Summer only. We plan to offer a Spring session in 2027.
Basic Training Program
Each year we conduct a Basic Training program to train new volunteers. The goal of the Basic Training program is to provide the skills necessary to be a successful ICO volunteer. Basic Training emphasizes safety, raft guiding skills, river rescue skills, equipment care, camp skills, and working with groups.
Basic Training is a significant time commitment. In 2026 the Summer Basic Training is one remote classroom session and 9 full, consecutive days on river. Here is the complete schedule of events.
ICO Rafting is committed to making sure new volunteers can participate, therefore we will be full covering the cost of Basic Training in 2026.
Volunteer Commitment & Requirements
In exchange for the training, ICO requires all new volunteers to make the following commitments:
- Volunteer for a minimum of 10 river-days per year for two years after completing the training
- Attend group meetings and yearly equipment work-parties
- Serve on an off-river committee or project team
Additionally, all volunteers are must meet these requirements:
- Be a member of the Sierra Club
- Be certified in CPR
- Be certified in Basic First Aid or more advanced first aid training
- Complete annual Mandated Reporter training (see below)
It will be your responsibility to satisfy these requirements. However, ICO often provides inexpensive First Aid and CPR classes. Need-based financial assistance is available.
Background Checks & Mandated Reporter (AB 506)
Since ICO works with many youth organizations, California law AB 506 requires that we perform criminal background checks on all of our adult volunteers. We also perform driving records checks for those who drive on ICO trips, which is optional. We hold this information in strictest confidence, and only screen for violent crimes and drunk driving convictions. If you feel for any reason that your background check is incorrect or needs explanation, then an appeal process can be initiated.
Additionally, all ICO volunteers are Mandated Reporters and must complete annual Mandated Reporter training. The Sierra Club provides Mandated Reporter training at no cost.
After Basic Training
After the training season, ICO begins its Participant Trip season in May or June each year. The schedule of trips for the entire season is usually available in April or May. Volunteers can sign up for the trips that best suit their schedule.
Apprenticeship
Most new guides will not be ready to guide Class III whitewater by themselves right after training. To help newly trained volunteers solidify their new guide skills, ICO has an apprenticeship program. As an Apprentice, you can get practice and experience with the help of a more experienced guide until you are ready to guide a boat by yourself.
Equipment
You do not need any extra equipment. ICO can provide all the equipment you need including tents, sleeping bags, wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets (we call them PFDs). Rafting equipment is expensive, so we encourage you to wait until you have good familiarity with rafting and rafting equipment before you buy your own. If you really want to have your own equipment right away, we recommend non-cotton clothing for layering.
For More Information
Contact our Volunteer Recruiting Coordinator at volunteer@icorafting.org.