The Washington Conservation Guild (WCG) is looking for new Board Members to help share responsibilities in the running of the organization. Would you, or someone you know, like to volunteer with us? We have events that could use support and active participation. Below is a selection of open positions. Interested? Email nominating@washingtonconservationguild.org.
Meeting Director: As a key member of the committee responsible for organizing and running the monthly member meetings, this individual collaborates closely with a team to ensure each meeting is engaging, informative, and well-executed. Responsibilities within the committee are shared, with each member contributing their unique skills to the planning and presentation of the event. Tasks may include identifying and selecting speakers, coordinating with invited speakers to confirm details, and crafting compelling meeting announcements to generate interest and attendance. During the meeting, they may take on the role of chairing the lecture or capturing the meeting through photography or video, editing the content for use on social media platforms to keep members informed and engaged after the event. Additionally, they assist with the reception by welcoming attendees, providing information, and fostering a friendly, inclusive atmosphere for all participants. Their combined efforts are integral to creating a memorable and successful meeting experience for the entire membership.
Treasurer: This individual is responsible for the smooth financial operation of the organization, including meticulously recording all financial transactions, ensuring that the financial accounts are balanced accurately and in a timely manner. They are tasked with filing necessary Federal and DC non-profit tax forms, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and deadlines. They also take on the important responsibility of preparing an annual budget, carefully projecting revenues and expenses, while monitoring spending throughout the year to ensure the organization remains within budgetary constraints. In collaboration with the Membership Secretary, they manage the Welcome Desk at meetings, handling membership payments and ensuring proper documentation is maintained.
Member Events Coordinator: Organize conservation related workshops and events for WCG members. A self-motivated volunteer works closely with the President to find local artists, conservators, and other arts sector professionals willing to partner with us to create hands-on workshops. Organize other special events, such as group visits to cultural heritage sites. Secure the venues, write event announcements, handle the RSVP lists, and serve as the WCG representative at the events. Are you interested in learning a new artistic or conservation technique? Interested in seeing a new exhibit? This is your chance to organize a workshop or tour, so that you (and your colleagues) can!
Community Partnership Project (CPP) Coordinator: Help local underfunded museums, underserved organizations, and public-facing institutions that require conservation assistance. The CPP Coordinator will evaluate institutions and work closely with the selected institution to arrange a one-day Community Partnership Project (previously Angels Project) to assist with collections care related tasks. Develop project timelines, apply for funding through grant applications, and plan proposed projects. Help WCG continue its long history of providing aid and conservation resources to underfunded DC institutions.
Outreach Events Coordinator: Organize outreach events for the wider DC and Baltimore communities. Find venues, recruit speakers, and organize programs to reach various groups with conservation interests. WCG is trying to increase our outreach program, and this role has the flexibility to identify specific events and advocacy opportunities that matter in our local DMV community. Help us reach out to the local community that doesn’t (but should!) know about conservation!
Logistics Chair: Help spend WCG’s money on delicious refreshments! Work with a team member to facilitate the Happy Hour Receptions before the monthly meetings. Coordinate with Meeting Directors regarding food and drink, supplies, facility details, and set-up/clean up. This is a chance to get away from your computer for a couple hours each month. A car is necessary in order to purchase provisions and bring supplies to all meetings. This is a chance to share your creative cuisine and entertaining skills with your colleagues.
Social Media Team Member: Share information to WCG’s social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. As part of a three-person team, develop posts covering topics of interest, regional job opportunities, internships, events, allied partner announcements, and WCG announcements. Help plan and coordinate campaigns to reach our members and interested public regarding WCG news and upcoming events. The WCG Social Media team is a newer part of the board, and they have a lot of creative flexibility. Come share your creativity, leadership skills, and social media prowess with us!
WCG Liaisons to the Safety & Cultural Heritage Summit: Work as part of a team with the Potomac Section of the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), Smithsonian Institution’s Office of Safety, Health and Environmental Management (OSHEM), the National Collections Program (NCP), and Lunder Conservation Center to organize the annual summit focused on Preserving Our Heritage and Protecting Our Health. Participate in planning activities such as drafting the call for speakers, selecting abstracts, communicating with speakers and registrants, and ensuring an enjoyable experience on the day of the summit.
IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) Action Committee: Foster a welcoming organizational culture by guiding the WCG and the larger conservation community towards becoming more inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible. Develop short and long term goals for WCG and maintain an accountability model to ensure sustainability of IDEA Actions.
Emerging Professionals Committee: Work as part of a team to make WCG a welcoming place for Emerging Professionals. Help organize the Williston Fund application and select recipients. Host lab tours, social events, and other activities for WCG’s intern/fellow/student members. Events can include a mixture of in-person and virtual activities. Organize a Career Day to include talks by professional conservators and recruit graduate students and recent graduates to share their portfolios.
