Volunteer at Arbutus Folk School
Arbutus Folk School volunteers make our mission possible by supporting our operations through their time and skills. Since our founding in 2013, volunteer support has allowed us to expand our community resources and positive impact with otherwise limited resources. See below for currently available volunteer opportunities, and contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org for any questions. Thank you!
Current Volunteer Opportunities
Handy Helpers
We are in constant need of repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to our equipment and facilities. If you are creative and handy, we need your help! Example projects could include: build and install shelving; install acoustical treatment on the ceilings and walls; unclog toilets and sinks (haha…); repaint and refresh walls; party and event set-up; holiday decoration; furniture/equipment moving, and more. If interested, contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org. ***Currently an area of high need***
Monday Clean Team
Support Arbutus Folk School’s operations by serving on our Monday Clean Team. This fun group meets weekly to clean and organize the facilities so that classes and events are welcoming to the community and functional for our artists. This is an essential volunteer role that builds community through regular, in-person work together with a small but mighty team. Tasks may include sweeping, dusting, disinfecting, vacuuming, taking out trash, sorting art supplies, etc. and will vary from week to week. If interested, contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org. All positions currently filled.
Youth Ceramics Aide
Inspire and encourage young artists ages 6-9 and 10-13 as they explore ceramic handbuilding and wheelthrowing. Our kind and skillful youth ceramics instructors appreciate the support of an aide, ideally with some experience in ceramics, to ensure students have the help and supervision needed to succeed and stay safe in the studio. Background checks are required and commitments are generally from 4 to 8 weeks at a time, with weekly 2-hour meetings for each class session. If interested, contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org. ***Currently an area of need***
Accessibility Aide
Help us provide more equitable access to the arts by serving as a classroom aide when requested by students with special needs. The classroom aide does not need prior experience in the assigned craft area, but rather keeps a sharp eye and ear out for any help that is needed during classroom activities. This can include lifting or holding items for students with physical disabilities or limitations, as well as support for students with cognitive needs such as following instructions, orienting in the studio, or other accommodations. The ideal aide will have relevant experience in an educational setting, strong communication skills, and ability to identify needs in the moment in collaboration with the instructor. If interested, contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org.
Flyer Team
Help us expand our services to the community by getting the word out to new audiences: take flyers to businesses and community centers in the area to advertise scholarships, special events, job openings, and more. We welcome the leadership and knowledge of the volunteer to help us identify ideal flyer locations in their community in addition to our own lists. Flyering is an important way to reach beyond our usual ‘bubble’ to audiences we have historically underserved, so volunteers supporting this work are making a great impact! If interested, contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org.
Getter-Ridders
We are searching for one or two volunteers who can manage sales and give-aways for decommissioned tools, equipment, and supplies at the School. This project is done in close collaboration with the Executive Director and requires the volunteer’s comfort using Facebook and/or Craigslist, ability to be present in the building and bring along a personal device, take pictures and research items to compose listings, field replies to listings, and make arrangements for pick-ups. This is an important way to help our studios be more organized, efficient, and welcoming, and support fundraising efforts that make our work possible. If interested, contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org.
Circle Leaders
Highly-trusted circle leaders support community gatherings in fiber arts and miscellaneous crafts that are free/donation-based at Arbutus Folk School. Volunteering your time and skill as a leader in this way allows us to offer something accessible to everyone that builds community and promotes continued practice of your favorite craft! A current example is monthly Embroidery Circle. Leadership positions of this nature require working closely with our team and work well for community members who are somewhat familiar with our facilities from taking classes or other past involvement. Please inquire with us if you would like to propose leading a monthly craft circle and to learn more.
Other volunteering questions or ideas? Email us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org!
