The Illinois State Fair is looking for volunteers to help in a number of areas throughout the ten days of this year's fair. These areas include information booths, various buildings, the Illinois State Fair Museum and the interactive agricultural exhibit, “Farmer's Little Helpers.”

“The Illinois State Fair draws nearly three-quarters of a million people to the fairgrounds in Springfield each year,” State Fair Manager Amy Bliefnick said. “The men and women who donate their time to the fair are a big part of its success.”

A minimum of 15 hours of service is required for all information booths, buildings and Illinois State Fair Museum volunteers. Available hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. “Farmer's Little Helpers” volunteers can choose from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. shifts or 2:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. shifts.

All volunteers will receive a free 2011 Illinois State Fair t-shirt, plus complimentary admission and parking for the days they work. Volunteers must be 11 years of age or older. Volunteers ages 11-13, however, will need adult supervision while working their shift. An application for volunteer employment is posted on the Illinois State Fair’s website at www.illinoisstatefair.info. Once the application is received, the fair will send volunteers a confirmation letter specifying their work schedule.

For additional information, please call the Special Events Office at (217) 782-0777. The Illinois State Fair will be held Aug. 12-21.