2022 Volunteers & Work Exchange

What is the Work Exchange Program?

Those conference attendees that are able to volunteer more of their time might consider applying for the Work Exchange Program. Dedicated, accountable volunteers will be asked to work 15 hours prior to and/or during the conference to support the staff and membership throughout the conference and ensure the conference runs smoothly.

Selection and placement will be at the discretion of the Volunteer Coordinator and there are limited spots available for this program. Open availability during the conference is the number one factor in being selected for the Work Exchange Program. If accepted and upon completion of the 15 hours, Work Exchange Volunteers will be reimbursed their conference registration fee.

For more information on SGAA Scholarships, several of which are applicable for conference workshops, check out our scholarship page here. 

Work Exchange Program Deadline: May 1, 2022

Notification of Work Exchange Program Acceptance: May 15, 2022

Notification of Work Exchange Position Assignment: May 31, 2022

  Why do I want to volunteer for the Work Exchange Program?

Through volunteering in such a capacity volunteers will:

• Get to meet and know fellow artists, SAMA & SGAA board members, and staff in a way that creates lasting relationships while contributing to the success of the conference;
• Enrich the volunteer’s conference experience and save the volunteer money;
• Help defray conference costs for those who need the support.

Volunteers are needed for the success of the conference, and it is a wonderful way to have fun, enrich your conference experience, as well as get a behind-the-scenes experience. While the purpose of this program is to provide support staff for the conference, it also allows a participant the opportunity to fully participate in the conference. Please apply early, as the number of positions is limited.

Work Exchange duties might include, but are not limited to:

• Clerical Conference work
• Assist at Registration
• Assist instructors throughout their workshop
• Assist the Staff during Conference
• Assist with Vendor Marketplace setup
• Monitoring entrance doors to various conference events
• SAMA & SGAA Store
• Assist with the Fundraising Auction
• Mosaic Art Salon-set up, preview, auction

To be considered for the Work Exchange Program:

• Current SGAA or SAMA membership in good standing from the time of application through June 2022.
• Be available and willing to work beginning Monday evening, June 27 – Friday morning, July 1, for a total of 15 hours during those days;
• Apply for a position by filling out and submitting the application and signing the Volunteer Agreement form; listing your workshop and tour plans, abilities, and contact information. Upon submission of the application, our Volunteer Coordinator may contact you to discuss your abilities and will respond by , to let you know if you have been accepted. Schedules will be sent to volunteers by .
• Must pay own travel expenses and stay in official conference hotel;
• It is helpful but not mandatory to have basic computer skills;
• MUST be flexible to work where placed.

Work Exchange benefits include:

• Complimentary Registration Package valued at $450 to the 2022 SGAA/SAMA Conference in Toledo, Ohio.
• Undying gratitude of SGAA & SAMA staff and Board

Volunteers are asked to register and pay for their registration first. A check will be available at the end of the conference to reimburse registration fees once hours worked have been verified. Volunteer Work Exchange participants who miss their work assignments during the conference will not receive a refund.