The Volunteer Experience

When elected as an alternate to the General Convention I didn't konw what to expect. Most of my convention experience has been with annual conventions. To be elected to a triennial was rather different. For almost two years I received publications and information in the mail in preparation. After making plans to be on the West Coast I later found out that the church only pays for deputies, not the alternates. Since my other plans were in place I decided to come on ahead and when the invitation for volunteers was sent out, I decided the best way to learn about the Convention was from the inside, so I signed up. I received my assignments in an email a few weeks later and when I arrived got straight to work. I was originally assigned to various tasks from registration detail to house services for the ECW. I was assigned in the Public Safety/Convention manager's office on the second day and that is where I have been for the past 7 days. Through this office I have had the opportunity to see everything that goes on with the coordinators of this massive event. I am in awe. (Kudos to them...especially Lori Ionnitiu)



The one thing that will stand out in my mind from this experience is the gratitude from the attendees. Everywhere I go someone says 'thank you for volunteering'. Volunteers are easily identified, not only are our name tags a different color but we are adorned in a bright yellow apron that bears the General Convention shield and says volunteer on the front.