Volunteering 101: Join the Artcraft’s Supporting Cast

Behind the scenes of The Historic Artcraft Theatre is a supporting cast who keeps each event running and greets moviegoers with a smile. Our volunteers are at the heart of what makes the Artcraft so special. They help with everything from popping popcorn to greeting guests during weekend showings, ensuring events run smoothly, and decorating for the holidays. Their work ensures visitors are immersed in the world of the movies when they walk through the door.
 
"I feel that volunteering brings people from all walks of life together," says Kim Moss, volunteer coordinator and patron relations. "There's magic in the Artcraft; you forget about your troubles when you walk through the doors. I have met some wonderful people in our community through the Artcraft—volunteers and patrons alike."
 
With more than 250 movies and events each year, the theatre needs plenty of help. Volunteers must be at least 13 years old to work with us—though our oldest volunteer is past 90! Individuals who attend the Artcraft's volunteer orientation can also sign up to volunteer at Madison Street Salvage. 

Have you ever wondered how you can become a volunteer at the Artcraft? Here are the steps you can take to begin your volunteer journey.
 
1.   Apply to volunteer
The first step to volunteering at the theatre is to apply through the Artcraft’s MyImpact page. Create your account and follow the onscreen prompts to get started. Once you create an account, you’ll also be added to the volunteer email list so you can get more information about upcoming orientation dates.
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2.   Attend orientation
All prospective volunteers must attend an orientation. During orientation, you’ll be taken on a guided tour through the theatre to understand the behind-the-scenes tasks that take place to put on a successful event for patrons. You’ll also be educated on the history of the theatre and see the types of tasks that are available to do when volunteering. Some volunteer jobs include being a greeter, ticket taker, usher, and concession stand worker (for example, popping popcorn, pouring soda). Teens get an option to work backstage and help out during the evening movies’ pre-shows.
 
Orientation is a great time to speak with the Artcraft’s staff directly to ask any questions.
 
Volunteer orientation takes place on Saturdays at 10 a.m. on these upcoming dates:

• May 17
• July 19
• September 20
• November 8

3.   Complete paperwork
If you are still interested in volunteering at the end of orientation, you need to complete some remaining paperwork. Parents need to sign forms for minors between the ages of 13–17. All adults must undergo a background check prior to volunteering, which includes filling out a form at orientation. The cost of the background check is $7 and can be paid by cash or check at orientation.
 
4.   Sign up for a shift!
After your application has been reviewed and you are approved to volunteer, the MyImpact account that you created at the beginning of the volunteer process will be activated. You can sign on to your MyImpact via the mobile app or on a computer. Under the Opportunities tab, you can sign up for available volunteer opportunities for upcoming events and movie showings. 

5.   Arrive at your scheduled shift time
When it comes to the day you volunteer, it’s important to show up to your shift at the scheduled time, not too early and not too late. After you check in, you’ll be guided to your designated area. If it is your first time volunteering for a specific task, you’ll be guided on what to do.
 
Remember to wear closed-toe shoes and an Artcraft t-shirt (if you don’t have one, they will provide an Artcraft vest for you to use). When new volunteers have reached 15 hours of volunteer time, they receive an official Artcraft volunteer t-shirt!
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6.   Greet patrons!
Doors open an hour before show time. When you are in place at your volunteer task, get ready to welcome patrons. All volunteers must stay at their designated stations until the movie begins. It is also requested that volunteers stay until the movie is over to help with clean up.
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As a volunteer, you can be a part of a group of people who make a difference in Franklin and Johnson County. Got questions? Email us at [email protected]