We have a volunteer coordinator and she works hard to pound the dirt so to speak in communities in/around race venues. Church groups, private schools, public schools, local clubs, local JROTC programs, rec-leagues and the list goes on. It is a lot of work to get volunteers. Some locations are better than others... some we have a queue of people on a wait list and one of our venues it's rough some time with low expected numbers for volunteers and half of them turn into 'no shows'.. bad combo.

I'm not the RD but do work for a multisports company on the side. Our RD pays the volunteers reasonably well for their time and services... so a good way for a local lacrosse team, softball team, church group, etc. to earn a little money in a few hours helping create a successful event.

All great suggestions. Also check with the local police departments -- they might have Police Explorers. Great for them to help with traffic control.