Our external staff play a vital role in ensuring IC runs smoothly, and it’s important that all staff are there from start to finish (February 10–16, 2026) to receive proper training and contribute fully to both the staff and teen experience. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate staff who are not available for the duration of convention.

Being a part of the external staff team is a volunteer opportunity offered to BBYO advisors, parents, alumni and supporters. While this is a volunteer role and not a paid position, BBYO will cover the cost of your transportation to and from Philadelphia (up to a certain amount which will be shared prior to registration). BBYO will also provide staff with housing accommodations and three meals a day, for the duration of your time staffing convention.

The IC experience is like no other and the staff are a key component to making the magic happen! If accepted, you will have the option to share your interests in a variety of staff assignments during the registration process. Examples include staffing the welcome center, registration, Shuk, transitions, and more. Some staff assignments are weeklong teams, and some are programmatic or operational. Everyone’s experience at IC is unique, and we’ll use your interests to help create a meaningful and memorable one for you.

We do a mix of training both virtual and in person to get you prepared for IC! You will arrive at IC on Tuesday for orientation, a few days before most teens arrive onsite. If this is your first IC, you will also be invited to a pre-IC call for first-time staff in January. You will be assigned to a cohort, and your cohort lead will be there to support you and prepare you for success throughout the week.

All applicants accepted to staff IC 2026 in Philadelphia will need to complete IC compliance that includes signing off on any BBYO polices and all PA compliance requirements.

Step 1: Pennsylvania Background Check
‍This verifies criminal history information from the Pennsylvania State Police. These checks aim to assess the suitability of individuals for to have contact with children or other vulnerable populations.

Step 2: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Check
‍A child abuse history clearance, also known as an Act 151 clearance, is required for certain individuals working with children or volunteering in settings where they might interact with minors. This clearance is a check to ensure individuals are not listed in the state's child abuse registry.

Step 3: FBI Fingerprint Check or Review/Sign a Disclosure Statement
‍“Federal Criminal History Records/FBI Check” is a check of federal criminal history informationobtained by the submission of a full set of fingerprints to the Pennsylvania State Police or its authorized agent. If you have resided in Pennsylvania for ten years consecutively, you are not required to complete an FBI fingerprint check and will instead be asked to sign a waiver.