Greater Fort Lauderdale seeks volunteers to become the face of a major global travel event
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Greater Fort Lauderdale is preparing for a major moment on the global travel stage, and local residents now have a chance to help shape how that moment is remembered.
From May 17 through May 21, 2026, Fort Lauderdale will host IPW 2026, one of the travel industry’s most prominent international trade shows, bringing visitors from around the world to Broward County.
As the city gets ready to welcome that audience, organizers are calling on community members to step forward as volunteers and help deliver a warm, polished, and memorable experience.
The opportunity is aimed at adults age 18 and older who want to play a hands-on role in one of the region’s biggest tourism events.
Volunteers will help greet attendees, staff welcome stations, assist at information desks, and support tours and guest services across several key locations.
Those locations include Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Miami International Airport, the Broward County Convention Center, and area hotels.
For many volunteers, the experience will go beyond simply helping with logistics. Organizers say participants will become part of the public face of Greater Fort Lauderdale, representing the destination not only to international travel advisors and tour operators, but also to tourism professionals from across the United States.
In that role, volunteers will help introduce guests to the region’s personality, hospitality, and wide range of attractions.
The program is also designed to give participants a closer look at Broward County’s tourism economy. Volunteers will have a chance to learn more about Greater Fort Lauderdale’s restaurants, hotels, family-friendly destinations, historical sites, and visitor experiences.
With tourism serving as Broward County’s top economic driver, the event offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a major industry showcase.
Organizers say volunteers will be supported throughout the process. Training sessions will take place closer to the event, while virtual information sessions are expected to begin in August.
Additional training will include games and incentives from destination partners. Volunteers will be given pertinent information to help them become knowledgeable ambassadors for the area, and organizers also plan to provide suitable shifts, parking, snacks, and a volunteer vest.
Each shift will last four hours, with duties including greeting guests, distributing pre-prepared welcome bags, offering directions, and helping create an exceptional visitor experience.
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There is also an added incentive for those who commit their time. Volunteers who complete two or more shifts will receive exclusive perks, adding another benefit to an experience already centered on connection, service, and community pride.
For Greater Fort Lauderdale, IPW 2026 will be a chance to present itself to the world. For local volunteers, it is a chance to stand at the center of that welcome and help show why the destination is ready for the spotlight.
