Community Outreach Volunteer - Bemidji - MNeurodivergent

Description

About MNeurodivergent

MNeurodivergent is a Minnesota-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to reducing isolation, fostering connection, and celebrating the diverse experiences of neurodivergent individuals across the state. Through social events, sensory-friendly spaces, and inclusive community-building, we create safe, accessible opportunities for people to connect, thrive, and belong.

We currently support multiple communities across Minnesota—including the Twin Cities, Duluth, Saint Cloud, Mankato, Bemidji, and more—each led by local volunteers working together to provide welcoming, affirming spaces for neurodivergent adults.

Position Overview

Event Co-Hosts play an essential role in creating welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure environments at MNeurodivergent events. As a Co-Host, you partner with an Event Organizer to help greet attendees, offer basic event support, and ensure the space remains accessible and supportive for all participants.

This is a great role for someone who enjoys social settings in smaller doses, likes helping others feel comfortable, and believes in the power of peer-led, neurodivergent community spaces.

Key Responsibilities

Welcoming & Social Support

• Greet attendees as they arrive and help them feel acknowledged and included.
• Offer guidance to new attendees (e.g., explaining how the event works, pointing out restrooms, or where food/activities are located).
• Be available as a friendly presence for those who may feel anxious or unsure.

Event Assistance

• Support the Event Organizer with light setup (arranging tables, setting out materials, signage, or sensory supports).
• Assist with cleanup tasks after events to ensure spaces are left tidy and respectful.
• Help manage small logistics during the event, such as monitoring supplies, keeping name tags available, or handing out information.

Community Building

• Check in with attendees who may need extra support, helping to reduce overwhelm and stress.
• Help foster conversation in small groups or guide low-pressure activities such as games, introductions, or check-ins.
• Model inclusive, respectful interaction that reflects MNeurodivergent's values.

Accessibility & Safety

• Be attentive to sensory, communication, and accessibility needs that may arise during events.
• Help monitor the environment to ensure it remains low-stress and welcoming.
• Offer to step in if someone needs a break, redirection, or peer support.

Representation

• Act as a representative of MNeurodivergent's values of radical inclusion, accessibility, and peer-led connection.
• Direct any questions about future events, volunteering, or organizational matters to the Event Organizer or Regional Coordinator.

Qualifications

• Friendly, patient, and approachable in social settings.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to commit to scheduled events.
• Comfortable engaging with people from diverse neurotypes, communication styles, and identities.
• Willingness to adapt to changing needs during events.
• Interest in neurodiversity, accessibility, and peer-support.
• Lived experience as a neurodivergent person is highly valued, but not required.
• Previous volunteer, customer service, or peer support experience is helpful but not necessary.

Time Commitment

• Average: 2–5 hours per month, depending on event schedules.
• In-person attendance required for events (typically evenings or weekends).
• Occasional check-ins or short virtual meetings with Event Organizers as needed.
• Flexible scheduling — Co-Hosts can choose which events to support based on availability.

Benefits of Volunteering

• Play an important role in creating safe, affirming spaces for neurodivergent adults.
• Gain experience in peer support, event hosting, and accessibility awareness.
• Build relationships with fellow volunteers and community members.
• Contribute to the statewide MNeurodivergent network and mission.
• Be recognized for your role in making Minnesota's neurodivergent community more welcoming and connected.