Become A Volunteer!

How Would You Like To Help?

Capturing volunteers is easy when there is a good reason to get involved. Below are some ways you could become an important part of the Victorian Chautauqua. Are you task-oriented, like greeting the public, sharing historical information, or acting as an ambassador for the event? See the descriptions below to get an idea of where your talents are best used. If you have special skills you feel would benefit the event, be sure to share them as well. [Ages 14 and Above]

SET UP/TEAR DOWN

If you’re able to lift at least 50 lbs., you could be part of the setup and tear-down volunteers. This could involve various tasks, from setting up stages, chairs, folding tables, electronic equipment, pop-up tents, and placing signage. The needs would be from July 11th through July 14th, which is the day before, during the festival, and the day following. Volunteers can select which days they are available.

HISTORIC HOSPITALITY

Help is needed to answer visitors’ questions at the Historic Ticket Office Museum and Bethel Center, as well as to offer general information about Mountain Lake Park. Tour guides for the Town Trolley are also needed. A scripted guidebook makes the tours consistent. Having an interest in history, public speaking, and a knack for hospitality is necessary so people feel welcomed. 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

An important way to build revenue for the Victorian Chautauqua is through merchandise sales. If you are comfortable handling money, making change, or running point-of-sale charges, you’re a good fit. The event uses Square Point of Sale to run debit or credit card sales. The system is quick to learn if you are familiar with shopping online.

KID-TAUQUA

If you love 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 all weekend long.

TALENT SERVICES

Special guests who are presenting can often need a hand getting settled in. Sometimes they need to bring props or set up a stage for their particular program. Making sure the talent has everything they need in a timely fashion helps the program run smoothly and on schedule. 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.

INTRODUCER

Each performance requires an introduction. Volunteers who are comfortable addressing an audience are needed. Scripts will be provided and can be reviewed in advance. Introductions are generally short, providing who the presenter is, a brief background, and welcoming them to the stage. You will also take the stage following the presentation to thank the presenter and make any announcements in the script.

TECHNICAL SERVICES

Assisting the event sound engineer or having general IT knowledge is a valuable asset to the festival. Helping speakers with microphones or digital presentations keeps everything running smoothly. Occasionally, help is needed with the festival point of sale device, trolley sound system, museum devices, or WiFi. If you’re generally knowledgeable about electronic and digital devices, you’re a good fit.

FUNDRAISERS

A fundraising event takes a lot of effort. Skills for this would include teamwork, selecting food and beverages, and an eye for decorating within a theme. People who are detail-oriented and those who enjoy hospitality are a perfect match.