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Step 1
Make a List: What cool events would you like to get into? Your first step is to make a list of what you like to do and events that you would like to get in to. By making a list you can be sure to stay focused and inquire and apply in time for any training or orientation sessions that are required.
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Step 2
Identify the Major Volunteer Organizations in Your Area: It is inevitable, any major production will need additional staff and support to meet demands. Much of the time event managers will contact reputable local volunteer organizations and post the opportunity with them. Most volunteer organizations maintain an up to date list of opportunities. The listing will provide you with an overview of the event, a listing of open jobs and contact information. Another resource for opportunities is Craig's List and idealist.org. Both of these resources also maintain up to date volunteer opportunities.
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Step 3
Attend the Orientation Session: Believe it or not, once you have selected a volunteer opportunity, attending the orientation session is critical to your ultimate enjoyment of the event. At the orientation session you will receive a detailed overview of the event as well as descriptions of the job assignments available. It is through these job assignment descriptions that you learn what is required of you, what you will be expected to do, how long your shift is and how many shifts you are required to work before you can take advantage of the benefits of being a volunteer. Don't hesitate to ask questions and get lots of clarification.
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Step 4
Know the Schedule: Your ultimate goal is to get in and have fun. By taking the time to know the schedule you can sign up for shifts that don't conflict with what you want to get out of the event. A lot of events need volunteers to do prep and set up work before hand. Signing up for these assignments gets your volunteer hours out of the way and frees you to enjoy the festivities. Remember, although you are a volunteer and this is not your job and you are not being "paid," people are counting on you. Don't make commitments you can't keep and don't schedule yourself to work shifts that conflict with your ultimate goal, getting in and enjoying the event.
