Community Event Coordinator

Vallalar203 Birthday Celebration

This event celebrates the life and teachings of the 19th-century Tamil saint-philosopher Ramalinga Vallalar (Ramalinga Swamigal), whose message of Suddha Sanmarga calls for universal compassion towards all living beings. The event brings together community members, scholars, and newcomers to engage with this philosophy through talks, discussion, and shared reflection.

Role Overview
We are seeking volunteers to support the smooth running of the event for a 4-hour shift. Volunteers are the first point of contact for guests and play a key role in creating a warm, welcoming, and well-organised atmosphere.

Duties and Responsibilities

Setup (before event): Assist with arranging seating, setting up registration tables, displaying informational or promotional materials, and preparing refreshment areas.
Registration and welcoming: Greet arriving guests, check them in against the attendee list, hand out programs or materials, and answer basic queries about the schedule and venue.
Guest support during the event: Direct attendees to seating, restrooms, and session rooms; assist elderly or first-time attendees; help manage queues for refreshments or book/merchandise tables if applicable.
General on-the-day support: Respond to ad hoc requests from the event coordinator, help manage minor logistical issues (e.g. running low on handouts, seating adjustments), and monitor that the venue remains tidy throughout the event.
Pack-down (after event): Assist with clearing tables, collecting unused materials, packing away signage and equipment, and leaving the venue in good order.
Representing the organisation: Interact with guests in a friendly, respectful manner that reflects the values of compassion and inclusiveness central to the event's philosophy.

Skills and Attributes

Friendly, approachable manner and good communication skills
Reliability and punctuality
Willingness to be on your feet and assist with light physical tasks (moving chairs, carrying boxes, etc.)
No prior experience or specialist knowledge of Vallalar's philosophy required — training and a briefing will be provided beforehand
An interest in or openness to themes of compassion, animal welfare, and spiritual philosophy is welcomed but not essential

Impact of This Role
Volunteers are essential to bringing this event to life. Your support directly enables us to create a space where people can connect with a philosophy of compassion that has relevance far beyond its Tamil origins — touching on animal ethics, universal kindness, and spiritual inclusiveness. By helping guests feel welcomed and ensuring the event runs smoothly, you help us reach a wider audience with this message, strengthen our growing community, and support our broader mission of promoting compassion for all living beings globally. Every volunteer hour contributes to making these teachings more accessible to newcomers and helps sustain the momentum of our outreach work, including future publications, translations, and events.

** Category **
Arts & Culture

** Commitment **
One off - an event

** Time Required **
3-7 PM Saturday, 31st October