Community Engagement Special Events Volunteer
Department
Community Engagement
Position Summary
Community Engagement Special Events Volunteers play a key role in creating welcoming, inclusive, and engaging experiences at special programs and celebrations. Volunteers help ensure guests feel seen, respected, and connected — from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. Volunteers provide event support such as greeting guests, assisting with activities, wayfinding, sharing event information, and engaging with community members in culturally responsive and respectful ways.
Responsibilities
The volunteer will:
- Warmly welcome guests, offering a friendly and inclusive first impression.
- Share accurate and timely information about the event, programs, and organizational offerings.
- Assist with wayfinding, helping guests navigate the event space.
- Support event activities such as check-in, handing out materials, or guiding guests to program areas.
- Engage respectfully with visitors from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.
- Promote a sense of belonging and help create a culturally affirming environment.
- Arrive on time, stay through the scheduled shift, and communicate any absences in advance.
- Help with basic event setup and/or teardown as needed.
Impact of the Assignment
Community Engagement Special Events Volunteers help create vibrant, welcoming experiences that honor the diversity of our communities. Their presence helps build trust and relationships between the organization and community members, ensuring that events are not only successful logistically but also inclusive and meaningful.
Qualifications
- Enjoys interacting with people of all backgrounds and identities.
- Personal or professional experience engaging with underrepresented communities including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, LGBTQIA+, and/or disability communities in Minnesota.
- Demonstrates cultural competence, respect, and openness to learning.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Comfortable working in dynamic, sometimes fast-paced environments.
- Ability to stand and move throughout the event space for a few hours at a time.
- Dependable, flexible, and enthusiastic.
Training Required
Orientation to the organization and the role of Special Events Volunteers.
Prior to each event, Community Engagement staff will share event-specific information, including details about the community organizations, groups, and individuals we are partnering with to host the event.
On-site training during the first shift to build confidence and familiarity.
Value to the Volunteer
- Build skills in community engagement and cultural responsiveness.
- Be part of vibrant events that celebrate and connect communities.
- Gain hands-on event experience in a fun and supportive environment.
- Contribute to an organization committed to history, culture, and community impact.
Time Commitment
- Flexible and event-based; shifts typically range from 3–5 hours.
- Volunteers are invited to sign up for events throughout the year.
- Evening and weekend availability is helpful.
Supervisor
Community Engagement Staff Members
Location
MN History Center and other MNHS Sites in Minnesota