The Committee of 300 Needs Volunteers – Now More Than Ever

For nearly 50 years, the Committee of 300 has been one of the quiet forces behind the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, helping turn city streets into one of the most iconic motorsport events in the country. As preparations ramp up for the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the volunteer-based organization is facing a moment that could shape its future, and it is calling on the community to step in.

The Committee of 300 is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization whose mission is to support the Long Beach Grand Prix while raising funds for local charities and strengthening civic engagement. Its members work behind the scenes during race week, assist with hospitality and guest services, and serve as ambassadors for Long Beach to visitors from around the world.

For President-Elect Chris Gehman, the appeal of the Committee of 300 is rooted in both access and tradition.

“It’s an opportunity to be part of history, the city’s history, and to have an insider’s seat to the race action, and be involved in the hosting of this event,” Gehman said.

He added that it is “the second most anticipated race in the IndyCar season, and it’s second only to the Indianapolis 500, so it is well known and anticipated every year,” Gehman states.

A Legacy Built by Volunteers

The committee was formed in 1975, the same year the first major race took place on the streets of Long Beach. Since then, the Grand Prix has evolved. From Formula 5000 to Formula One, and now IndyCar. However, the Committee of 300 has remained a constant presence.

Their signature red jackets have become a symbol of the event itself. Members help staff grandstands, support race operations, assist vendors, and ensure fans have a safe and welcoming experience. Beyond the track, the committee hosts major fundraising events such as the Grand Prix Ball and the Grand Prix Foundation Golf Tournament, benefiting local nonprofits throughout the year.

“And the volunteers that we have are race fans, but not all of them. Some people just like the spectacle of the event,” Gehman states. “But I think a lot of them just enjoy the camaraderie of the committee and just the excitement of the event.

Today, the Long Beach Grand Prix is owned by Penske Entertainment, following Roger Penske’s acquisition of the event and IndyCar operations. The ownership transition has strengthened the race’s national and international profile, while also signaling potential changes in how the event evolves through new partnerships, vendor relationships and operational expectations.

With that evolution comes greater opportunity, but also greater responsibility for the volunteer organizations that help support the event.

Gehman says, “We certainly hope the Penske people will appreciate our work, and the long-standing relationship we’ve had with the Grand Prix. I mean, we’ve been there since the very first race. So that in itself is unique, and I think important to me to keep that relationship going.”

Gehman further adds, “There are a lot of fans that have been coming to this race since the beginning, too, and you find that out when you work in the grandstands. A lot of them have been coming back to the same seat every year for 30-40 years.”

Why Support Is Needed Now

Gehman underlines that “It takes help. It takes the entire committee. Whether you’re a newbie with us or a seasoned veteran, everybody’s role is important.”

And adds that, “Together, we can make this happen, and we’ve done a pretty good job of it the last few years, according to the feedback I’ve gotten from the Grand Prix the last several years.”

Like many volunteer-driven organizations, the Committee of 300 is navigating declining volunteer participation and rising demands. Race operations have become more complex, safety expectations higher, and the need for reliable, committed volunteers more urgent.

Committee leaders say this is a pivotal moment – and a major opportunity.

For college students and young professionals, joining the Committee of 300 offers hands-on experience in event operations, logistics, communications and community engagement. It’s a meaningful service that builds résumés, professional networks and real-world skills.

For retirees and longtime fans, it’s a chance to stay connected to an event that has defined Long Beach for generations, while giving back to the city and supporting causes that matter locally.

Carrying the Tradition Forward

The Long Beach Grand Prix has always been more than a race. It’s a reflection of the city itself, driven by community, fueled by volunteers, and sustained by people who believe in its impact.

As the 51st Acura Grand Prix approaches, the Committee of 300 is asking the community to help carry that legacy forward. New volunteers, fresh energy, and renewed local support will help ensure that this nationally recognized event continues to thrive – on the streets of Long Beach and in the hearts of those who make it possible.

Gehman emphasized, “The outreach, yeah, is very important. We need help this year, and it’s an opportunity to come on board with us and get involved in the race.”

For “there’s still a similar drive to do our part in making the race a success every year.” And “how we respond to those challenges is what’s important. And knowing that every year, when it comes time to host that race, we all come back together, and we get it done,” says Gehman.

Persons interested in becoming a C300 volunteer should contact Karen Passion at (562) 965-1773 or Doreena Daniel at (949) 922-7949.