Why Yes, We Do Still Need Volunteers. Find out More.
Yup, we do still need volunteers. (So no, it’s not too late to raise your hand, to speak up, to be a part of an awesome day.) We depend on more than 200 volunteers — both veterans and newbies — to help us make this day a huge success year after year.
In the latest in our line of “why volunteer” blog posts, veteran volunteer Jean Mitchell weighs in.
How many times have you volunteered at the Gaithersburg Book Festival and what is your role?
This will be my third year to volunteer. My first year was general greeter/direction giver… It gave me a chance to learn what the Gaithersburg Book Festival was all about. Last time, I worked with greeting/escorting a couple writers to their booths, monitoring timelines for Q&As and autographs, etc. I was careful to respect the authors’ time and, yes, privacy by not inundating them with questions of my own. I’m looking forward to doing that assignment again this year, if possible.
What has been your favorite moment as a volunteer at the Festival?
My favorite moment was when I received a very sincere Thank You from one of the writers. He said he appreciated my efficiency and warmth!
What advice would you give a new volunteer starting out with the Festival?
Advice I’d give to new volunteers:
- Make the day about serving others
- Be knowledgeable and give good directions
- Seek out adults/children who might need directions or help in some way
- Be cheery in whatever your assignment; and
- SMILE. Be gracious and welcoming. Today you are a City ambassador.
Who would be your ultimate dream author to see at the Gaithersburg Book Festival?
My ultimate dream author that I would like to see featured is David Baldacci or Nicholas Sparks–two of my all-time favorite authors!
So come on out. Volunteer. No experience is necessary. All we ask is that you bring a warm smile and a helpful attitude! We’ll bring the award-winning authors, once in a lifetime opportunities and your very own volunteer t-shirt. Just fill out the Volunteer Application.
