With the continued restoration of the historic Roycroft Campus in East Aurora there is a need for more volunteer docents to help share the story of Elbert Hubbard and the Roycroft. Being a docent is a great way to get involved in the community, learn about local history and meet people from the region and around the world. Docents play an important role in guiding visitors around the National Historic Landmark Campus, as well as helping with special events and projects. No experience is necessary, just the motivation to attend a fun and informative training and be available to volunteer your time.
The Roycroft Campus is offering two docent-training sessions in 2020. The trainings run for three hours one day a week for six weeks, ending in a graduation tour. There will be two sessions: Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. beginning March 4 and Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon beginning March 7. The classes are conducted by staff and master docents who have been leading tours for years and understand the questions and concerns new docents may have.
In addition to explaining the history of the Roycroft, they will facilitate exercises on public speaking, share tips on how to organize information and review best practices in giving a tour and working with the public. They also have the invaluable benefit of sharing their personal experiences. By the end of the training, each volunteer will be given the tools to conduct a Campus tour, answering questions about the history, architecture and more.
Once trained, docents are asked to help with at least five tours or events on the Campus during the year. Most volunteers enjoy the experience so much that this commitment is easily completed. The Roycroft Campus tour season runs from the beginning of May through October. The weekly options include both a one-hour basic tour and a two-hour in-depth excursion. The Roycroft also hosts a variety of school and special interest groups throughout the year.
If you are interested in being a part of the Roycroft Campus team, sign up to become a docent! There is a $40 enrollment fee to cover training costs. To learn more, visit www.roycroftcampuscorp.com or call Amanda Falkowski at 655-0261, ext. 108.