Volunteers make everything we do possible and there are many opportunities to volunteer at Old Austerlitz & the Austerlitz Historical Society. Volunteers typically work via committees. Committee members are volunteers who can, with their abilities, talents and skills, further the Society’s mission. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us at 518-392-0062 or send an email to Margaret Hover at [email protected]
Here are some of the opportunities:
Buildings and Grounds Committee members assist in maintaining the buildings and grounds of Old Austerlitz. They make recommendations to the Board as to work needed, the procurement of contractors, and form crews to help mow lawns, do repair work, move furniture, and handle parking at events.
Membership Committee members help to recruit new members to the Society, send notifications for yearly dues, maintain the computerized membership records and generate membership lists, labels, etc. for use by other committees. Computer skills are important.
Museum, Library & Archives Committee members are responsible for the preservation of objects and archival documents in the possession of the Society and their presentation to the public. This may include accessioning, description, labeling and placement processes. Activities include the mounting of exhibits in the Old Austerlitz buildings, maintaining and display of collections, general museum operations, and serving as museum docents.
Historic Research Committee members conduct research concerning subjects pertaining to the history of Austerlitz and the greater community and works closely with the Museum, Library & Archives Committee. Committee members are encouraged to research subjects of particular interest to themselves and the Society. Recent projects have included documenting the approximately 160 surviving houses that appear on the 1888 atlas of the town and the publication of the book “The Old Houses of Austerlitz.”
Public Relations Committee members prepare publicity for the Society, its programs and events (i.e., press releases, posters, etc.) Writing, computer and/or design skills are important.
Events Committee members are responsible for helping to plan and execute major fundraising events for the Society. At this time, major events include the Blueberry Festival.
Programming & Education Committee members suggest and facilitate programs (lecture series, history-based workshops) and educational events that are consistent with the mission of the Society to further the interpretation of the history of the town and the greater community. Members often need to work with a variety of committees to coordinate activities.