Tips for volunteering at a large event, plus local opportunities [United Way column]

Large summer community events are often powered by volunteers. Serving as a volunteer at one of these large events can be an exciting experience that provides an opportunity to make a big impact in just a few hours. To have the best experience volunteering at a large event, I recommend paying attention to a few things.

First, familiarize yourself with the event before you arrive. Find out about the purpose and goals of the event, read through the schedule and understand your volunteer role and responsibilities. Be sure to participate in any training or orientation and read any information you are sent.

Second, be prepared for the conditions and arrive on time. Dress for the weather and your volunteer role, and if needed, bring a water bottle. Arriving on time makes it easier for the event coordinators, allows time for any briefing or updates you may need and helps the event run smoothly.

Third, be flexible and positive. Be ready to adapt to any needed changes or unexpected situations. Collaborate with fellow volunteers and stay in communication with event coordinators, other volunteers and attendees, and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way. This is a great opportunity to meet other people from the community and to have fun while serving.

Finally, respond to any surveys from event organizers and provide stories and feedback about your experience. Your input can help improve both the event itself and the volunteer experience.

Here are two large community events that are seeking volunteers:

Hospice and Community Care Auction volunteers

Preparations are already underway for Hospice and Community Care’s Labor Day Auction, and volunteer registration is open right now. Volunteers are needed to assist with setup the week before the auction, Aug. 26-30 at Solanco Fairgrounds in Quarryville. Much of the work involves setting up tables and chairs and unloading auction items. In addition, volunteers with pickup trucks and large vehicles are needed to help haul donated items. Cleanup volunteers are also needed after the auction on Tuesday, Sept. 3. The auction days on Saturday, Aug. 31, and Monday, Sept. 2, provide opportunities for volunteers to assist with the auction and to sell raffle tickets. There is a role for anyone who wants to get involved. Volunteers are invited to volunteer for a few hours or a few days, and children 12 years and over are welcome to volunteer. For more information and to volunteer, visit tinyurl.com/HospiceAuctionVols.

Back to School Event: Heavy lifting volunteers needed

Volunteers who are willing and able to do some heavy lifting are needed to help out with the 13th annual Back to School Event on Sunday, Aug. 18, at Clipper Magazine Stadium. Volunteers are especially needed to help with setup the morning of the event, at the shoe station during the event, and with cleanup after the event. Volunteers able to do heavy lifting are also needed to help with loading and unloading supplies at Park City Center on Friday, Aug. 16, and Monday, Aug. 19. All these roles are great for teams from workplaces, churches, and other groups. For more information and to volunteer, visit tinyurl.com/13thBacktoSchool.

Find volunteer opportunities around Lancaster County

United Way of Lancaster County’s Get Connected volunteer site offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities from around the county and you can find volunteer opportunities that fit your interests and availability. The site is regularly updated with new opportunities, and you can also sign up to receive updates when new opportunities are posted. Visit Get Connected at uwlanc.galaxydigital.com.

Joel Janisewski is director of the volunteer center and community listening for United Way of Lancaster County.