Volunteers are the main reason we're able to keep costs low for HOPE attendees. We need volunteers in just about all areas of the conference - regardless of experience or skill levels. Just email volunteers@hope.net to be added to the volunteer list.
If you join our team of volunteers, you will get a special t-shirt plus other perks. But we hope your reason for joining is to help build a great conference from behind the scenes. Most of our volunteers want to come back and volunteer again because the experience is really rewarding. We guarantee you'll meet some really cool people in the process. And we will insist that you also enjoy the conference by attending the talks you want to see, participating in your chosen workshops, villages, performances, etc.
Here's a rough guide to where we will need help. This list will change in the weeks ahead so keep checking back or join the mailing list by emailing the address above!
Setup:
This involves stringing cables; setting up lighting, audio, and video equipment; building art installations; and getting the conference ready for attendees. Being on the setup crew is a great way to meet organizers and other volunteers - both old regulars and brand new faces - and to get acquainted with the conference before it starts!
Production:
Our A/V gurus will be seeking volunteers to operate sound boards, lighting consoles, projectors, and video cameras during the talks. Volunteers are needed to help set up the gear and to help maintain it over the course of the weekend. Last year, this was an area where we really needed more help.
Stage Managers:
If you're good at keeping things flowing and on time by coordinating speakers, assisting with emcee duties, and generally making sure all of the speaker tracks are running smoothly, then this might be the job for you!
EmCees:
Masters of Ceremony introduce talks, make announcements, guide the Q&A, and generally help to make sure speaker sessions run smoothly. If you can commit to blocks of at least three hours to run a few speaker sessions, get in touch! Emcees help set the tone for presentations, give enthusiastic support to speakers and their topics, and keep the audience informed with updates and announcements.
Network:
The Network Operations Center is always looking for volunteers to help plan, both prior to the event and during operations to build up and maintain our special event network. If you are self-directed and can contribute time and energy to building an all-volunteer enterprise network, please get in touch with us right away! We are in need of switches and wireless APs (with controllers and licenses).
Information Desk:
HOPE is a big place. Queens is an even bigger place. We will be needing volunteers to help give out information on either or both to attendees who are looking for orientation or direction. This is also where people will go for schedule and event updates.
Special Ops:
Volunteers will be needed for the unforeseen problems that will inevitably pop up. Such challenges as running errands, passing messages, stepping in for other volunteers who need a brief break...the list goes on.
If you have particular skills or interests and want to get involved or simply learn more, send an email to volunteers@hope.net. No experience necessary!
See you at HOPE_16!
