With the continued restoration of the historic Roycroft Campus 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 a Docent Training session in March 2024. The trainings run for three hours on Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon for three weeks, with the first class on March 9. Classes are conducted by staff 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 Campus, 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 an introductory 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. Docents who complete this course will also have the opportunity to train for more advanced tours at a later date.
If you are interested in being a part of the Roycroft Campus’ team, sign up to become a docent! There is a $20 materials fee, and preregistration is required. To learn more, visit www.roycroftcampuscorp.com or call Amanda Falkowski, programming manager, at (716) 655-0261, ext. 108.
