Taking Action: National Rural Substance Use Disorder Health Equity and Stigma Summit

Volunteering at the Summit

Volunteering at the Taking Action: summit is a way to help communities as they work to overcome stigma and health inequity related to substance use disorder (SUD). The summit is bringing together diverse speakers from around the nation to address these barriers and discuss creative solutions. Volunteers will be integral to the smooth running of the event, helping presenters and attendees as they come together for this important purpose. In addition to opportunities to learn and contribute, volunteers will receive free parking, complimentary meals, and a summit t-shirt.

We are looking for local volunteers to support this endeavor. There are various opportunities to choose from. The roles are described below, and you can volunteer for one or more of them.

Please note that applying to volunteer does not guarantee an assignment. All volunteers will be required to participate in a short training before the conference. We will offer several options for training, both online and in-person, to fit a variety of schedules.

General Responsibilities

Along with responsibilities specific to certain roles, all volunteers will be asked to:

• Wear a badge identifying themselves as volunteers.
• Answer questions in a helpful and friendly way.
• Know the key locations of summit events (ballroom, exhibit hall, breakout session rooms, etc.) and be able to direct attendees as needed.
• Have the contact information of the event manager/summit staff handy in case any issues arise.

Volunteer Roles

Registration Volunteer

As a registration volunteer, you will likely be attendees’ first point of contact at the Taking Action summit. You will greet attendees as they approach the registration table, verify their vaccination status, give them their name badge and any other materials, and provide directions or answers to questions as needed.

Greeter

Greeters will be located at the Eastman School of Music, Wolk Atrium, near Hatch auditorium, and in other areas where summit attendees are likely to need directional help. As a greeter, you will be familiar with all of the summit locations and schedules so that you can answer questions and provide directions as necessary. Greeters will also assist in the ballroom during events in case there are handouts or to answer any questions that attendees may have.

Presenter Support

Presenter Support volunteers will staff the breakout session rooms and ensure that sessions run smoothly. They need to be comfortable interacting with attendees and providing directions when necessary. Specific duties include:

• Make sure all attendees are seated in chairs.
• Help presenters with setup (if necessary).
• Help distribute any handouts.
• Address any needs that come up in the breakout session room (for example, contacting the Technology Assistant if their help is needed).

Rovers

Rovers will cover miscellaneous needs that come up, including providing support in areas that need additional help, such as registration or support for presenters. They will also assist during breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack breaks as well as during exhibits and activities.