Volunteering at Talent Maker City

What it really looks like (and why we do it this way).

We love our volunteers and recognize the profound support they provide our organization and community! From event help to teaching workshops to helping with department tasks, there are many ways to get involved. 

Volunteering at TMC is about joining a trauma-informed, community-centered ecosystem of makers. We move thoughtfully so that everyone feels supported, valued, and clear about expectations.

Here’s what the process looks like:

 STEP 1: Connect First (Start With a Conversation)

Before sharing an application, we like to:

• Meet you for a conversation (in-person)

• Ideally see you participate in a workshop or event - and at a minimum, take a tour of our makerspace

• Share honestly about our current volunteer needs

• Make sure our values align (DEI, trauma-informed care, inclusion, belonging)

Why?
We want to paint a realistic picture of the time commitment, onboarding, and expectations, because sometimes that clarity changes people’s minds. And that’s okay.

We also want to avoid collecting applications when we don’t truly have capacity.

How to start: 

Come into the makerspace and use the (not so) secret code “I’m interested in being a TMC Volunteer.” 

STEP 2: Values Alignment

Volunteers at TMC are part of creating a brave, welcoming space.

We look for alignment with:

• Diversity, Equity + Inclusion (DEI)

• Trauma-informed practices

• Community-centered decision making

• Youth and adult safety & emotional wellbeing

• Transparency and respectful communication

If it feels like a good mutual fit, we’ll invite you to apply.

STEP 3: Application + Background Process

If we all decide to move forward, next steps include:

1. Complete a volunteer application

2. Background check

3. Reference checks (as needed)

This ensures safety for all participants and clarity for everyone involved.

STEP 4: Required Training

All volunteers complete:

• Volunteer onboarding session 

• 2-hour ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) / Trauma-Informed Care Training

• Safety orientation specific to the department

• Role-specific onboarding

This training helps us ensure that our space remains regulated, inclusive, and supportive, especially for youth and marginalized community members.

STEP 5: Commitment & Onboarding

We’ll talk honestly about:

• Current volunteer needs

• Time commitment expectations

• Scheduling consistency

• Department fit

We believe in being transparent about this. 

STEP 6: Volunteer Benefits 

Beyond supporting hands-on learning and belonging, Talent Maker City volunteers join a robust, creative community. 

For every 10 hours of volunteer time, volunteers are invited to engage in one free open studio session in any department where they are a Certified Maker. 

Unique Skills Welcome

Even when we’re “full,” occasionally someone brings:

• A specialized trade or artistic skill

• Language access

• Lived experience aligned with a program

• A strong connection to a partner community

If that’s you,  let’s talk!

Why We Do It This Way

We move intentionally because:

• We don’t want people to feel unwanted.

• We don’t want to overpromise engagement.

• We protect staff capacity.

• We center participant safety.

• We honor the ecosystem we’ve built.

Volunteering here is relational, not transactional.

If you’re still excited after reading this, that’s a good sign! 💛
Reach out to start a conversation.