Volunteers Of Joy
Volunteers are an essential part of any nonprofit venture from being part of planning committees to helping at events or acting as ambassadors. These experiences can be fulfilling and open doors to new friendships and a sense of purpose.
At The Victorian Chautauqua, taking place July 9 and 10, 2022, there are various needs for volunteers who want to help the event be successful. Through a series of categories below, as well as two-hour shifts, new volunteers can select the best fit for them in advance. An online form allows you to share your areas of appeal, abilities, and availability. If you have special skills you feel would benefit the event, be sure to share them as well. Once you are on the list, orientations will walk you through what to expect as a volunteer so you’re ready to go when the time comes. [Ages 14 and up. Students should ask about Service Learning Hours.]
We would like to thank you if you were part of the volunteer team in 2021, but please submit a form for 2022. This will allow volunteer coordinators to update the list and confirm your availability.
SET UP/TEAR DOWN
If you can lift at least 50 lbs., you could be part of the setup and tear-down volunteer team. This could involve a variety of tasks, such as setting up stages, chairs, folding tables, electronic equipment, pop-up tents, placing signage, etc. The needs would be from July 8th through July 11th, which includes the day before, during the festival, and the day following. Volunteers can select which days and times they are available.
HISTORIC HOSPITALITY
Help is needed to answer visitors' questions at the Historic Ticket Office & Museum and offer general information about Mountain Lake Park. Tour guides for the Town Trolley are also welcome. This would require some training and education about the town’s history. An interest in history and a knack for hospitality are needed so people feel welcome. Historical information would be supplied, and no individual research is required.
ONSITE SERVICES
Various tasks for onsite services can include directing traffic, assisting with parking, handing out programs, collecting and picking up trash, helping visitors with way-finding, or escorting people between venues.
MERCHANDISE SALES
Merchandise sales are an important way to build revenue for the Victorian Chautauqua. You're a good fit if you are comfortable handling money, making changes, or running point-of-sale charges. The event uses PayPal Here to run debit or credit card sales electronically. The system is quick to learn if you have a smartphone and a basic understanding of online sales.
KID-TAUQUA
If you enjoy working with children, Kid-Tauqua is right up your alley. Volunteers can assist with crafts, games, and activities to keep the little ones busy for hours. the Kid-Tauqua committee is already making plans to keep the youngsters entertained.
TALENT SERVICES
Special guests who are presenting can often need help getting settled in. Sometimes, they need to bring props or set up a stage for their particular program. Ensuring the talent has everything they need in a timely fashion helps the program run smoothly and on time. Skills for this would include feeling at ease with new people, problem-solving, and a general understanding of hospitality services. The goal is for the talent to feel well cared for and catered to.
Sound technicians may also need help. Basic technology skills would be required. This can be a wonderful experience for teens who have an interest in this area. The expert team from TMack Sound Live Reinforcement will supervise connecting mics for performers and laptops for lectures.
FUNDRAISERS
A fundraising event such as Dinner on the Diner involves a large, coordinated effort. Skills for this would include working as a team and good follow-through. Detail-oriented people and those who enjoy hospitality are perfect fits.
TEEN PUNK SILENT DISCO
A special evening disco for teens is planned for Saturday, July 9, beginning at 7:30. Parent volunteers would be greatly appreciated to help oversee the evening’s activities, hand out and collect headsets, and assist with setup and breakdown. It will be a wonderful kick-off to summer for rising freshmen and 2022 graduates entering the next phase of their lives. Please note on your volunteer form if this is an event with which you would like to help.