This is going to be an exciting year on the canals with more visitors anticipated for events celebrating the bicentennial of the canal’s opening in 1825. At the Brockport Welcome Center, there is the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, as well as members of this community. Brockport Ambassadors are often the first to welcome visitors who come by boat, bike, car, or on foot. Their mission is to encourage guests to enjoy the Village of Brockport’s hospitality and the amenities the facility has to offer.
The Brockport Welcome Center is set to open on Friday, May 16, and close mid-October. Whenever Ambassadors are available, it is open seven days a week from noon to 6 p.m. and on Thursdays until 8 p.m. All volunteers are fully supported and training is provided. Shifts are in two-hour blocks and can be scheduled on a weekly or bi-weekly rotation, with flexibility for summer plans. Some volunteers need to keep their schedules open and prefer to substitute by checking the online calendar.
Brockport Ambassadors are required to have an email account (that is regularly used), as important volunteer information is communicated via email. They must also be willing to use an iPad and accept credit card and cash payments. Volunteers range from ages 16 to 87. They are retired, work full/part time jobs, and/or go to school/college. Some volunteers serve with a partner, while others fill a shift on their own.
There is a critical need to fill Saturday shifts, and some weekday shifts are available. Those interested in volunteering are asked to email Susan Smith, Welcome Center Director, at welcomecenter@brockportny.org to explore the possibilities.
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