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Event Lead

ROLE SUMMARY

This is an advanced role available for current HVZ volunteers.

Event Leads are essential to making sure our celebrations, bashes, races, nights and straight up parties run smoothly! Always the first to arrive, Event Leads help HVZ staff support volunteers new and returning throughout our events. They welcome volunteers, help them get started and check in on them throughout an event. This might look like checking in a volunteer and getting them their supplies for the event. This may be subbing in while a volunteer takes a quick break. It might even be delivering hot chocolate on a cold Zoo Lights night. Event Leads also provide a second set of experienced hands – assisting with anything from directing guests to making supply runs across the Zoo.

“During my Boo at the Zoo rounds a dad and his toddler stopped me for help. They were so excited for the event that they forgot where they came in! It felt good to get them reoriented and help them end their day of trick-or-treating on a high note.”

Joe, Event Lead for Boo at the Zoo

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Arrive before all other volunteers
  • Assist with any last-minute set-up
  • Welcome volunteers, check them in, and get them oriented to the space
  • Check in on volunteers throughout the course of an event
  • Show new volunteers around and help them navigate to and from their shift location
  • Sub in for volunteers during breaks
  • Help volunteers with their shift duties during busy times
  • Thank volunteers
  • Assist with tear-down and volunteer dismissal as needed
  • Provide radio support to volunteers and staff as needed
  • Assist with other event duties as needed
Volunteering For All

Event Leads take a very physically active role. It is possible that an Event Lead will traverse the entire Zoo several times in one shift. Many events take place after hours during times of low light. Zoo Lights, specifically, takes place in the after hours during the winter when most work is outside and temperatures are low.

This role requires quick thinking and movement, and may not be suitable for volunteers who prefer things to move at a slower pace.

Prerequisites
  • Currently an active HVZ volunteer in an ongoing role
  • Minimum of 50hrs of volunteer time with HVZ in 2023
  • Completed Radio Training through MyImpact
Requirements & Skills
  • 18+, OR 16+ with completion of the HVZ Teen Program and special recommendation from HVZ staff
  • Able to commit to at least 3 Event Lead shifts per year
  • Able to quickly switch between sitting and standing for 3-4hrs at a time
  • Able to hear despite crowded spaces
  • Able to lift at least 20lbs
  • English level of advanced to native
  • Excellent communication
  • Able to stay calm and positive in challenging situations
  • Able to problem solve and work as part of a team
  • Passion for meeting new people and including them as part of the HVZ volunteer team
Time Commitment

3 shifts or 8-10hrs/yr: Event Lead shifts are at least 1.5hrs and at most 5hrs. Shift times depend on the type and size of event.

Event Lead needs are the heaviest between September and December when we have Run Wild, Boo at the Zoo and Zoo Lights. However, as we add more summer evens, we expect more opportunities May through August.

Event Leads sign up as shifts become available.

Training

All of these trainings are available as refreshers at any point upon request.

  • Online
    • Event Lead Zoom Training with Volunteer Coordinator (60min). This training is good for one year. Those who complete it and their three Lead shifts have the option of continuing with a short refresher.
  • In-Person
    • Shadowing/Introduction. In other words, we’re not going to throw you into all the responsibilities your first time ’round. You’ll have a chance to ease your way in with the help of another seasoned Event Lead or HVZ staff member.
Weather Policy

As with Event volunteering, we will be in touch regarding inclement weather plans in the week leading up to the date.

Event Leads should be prepared to work in any kind of weather, and to help other volunteers during times of high winds, light precipitation and cold/hot temperatures.

In the event of truly inclement weather, we will cancel or postpone an event. When signing up for an event with a back-up date, Event Leads must sign up for both dates.

Event Lead Application

Applications for 2024 Event Leads is be posted in mid-summer of each year. It may also be posted earlier in the event we have need of more Leads.

Wanting to get involved but the application’s not up yet? Email, call or talk to any of your volunteer support staff! We’d love to help.