UF CARE Emerging Leaders Volunteer Program

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR AFFILIATE STATUS

To help trainee affiliate members optimize their engagement in UF CARE, we are implementing a program that is designed to increase service and networking opportunities for our remarkable body of affiliate members. We have labeled the program “UF CARE Emerging Leaders Volunteer Program”. A title that reflects our belief in your potential! Our program success has always been dependent on affiliate engagement.  This program allows us to formally recognize and encourage participation. Specific details are outlined below, and the application is available at the bottom of the page.

Objectives: The program’s objectives are to

• Promote volunteerism as a form of service to the training program and community.
• Support the success of UF CARE program events and initiatives.
• Build connections with faculty, staff, and fellow trainees.
• Be a fun way to get involved.

Benefits:

• Volunteer service will be considered as part of the ranking criteria for travel and dissertation awards.
• Opportunities to develop leadership, organizational, and networking skills.
• Expand individual networks across scientific and training domains

Clarifying Expectations:

• You are asked to indicate any/all of the events for which you would be interested in volunteering.  Expressing your interest does not obligate you to participate in every event in a category or that you could do ALL the categories.   We understand that life is complicated.
• Applications will be reviewed to match volunteers with events based on:
  • Individual interests
  • Event needs
  • Rotation of opportunities across trainees
  • The goal is to distribute opportunities while ensuring events are adequately staffed.

Process:

• Applications can be submitted at any time.  Persons familiar with UF CARE programming will sort applications by the criteria above. A designated “Emerging Leaders” contact person will reach out and discuss specific options and dates. 

Interest Areas and Demands: What’s Available??

Expectations:

Monthly Seminar Support: Typically, 3^rd Wednesday at 3:00 pm

• Coordinate with CARE Administrator, Alexis Pickett
• Facilitate transfer of materials (sign-in sheets, refreshments, etc.) from CARE Admin office to/from Seminar location.
• Set up and break down the room (as needed): serve as rover should there be a need for assistance (e.g., IT assistance)

UF CARE Tabling Events

COM Research Day in the Spring is the major event.  Others are possible (with notice)

Expectations:

• Pick up materials from the UF CARE office
• Set up the display
• Staff the table with other volunteers, faculty and staff

Graduate Student Recruitment Events

Examples: Neuroscience Recruitment Weekend

Expectations:

• Staff recruitment table/poster
• Approximately 1 hour per day over a 2-day event
• Answer questions and represent the program

Social Committee Support

Expectations:

• Work with Social Committee chairs
• Assist with event setup and breakdown
• Facilitate engagement at the event

UF CARE Symposium

PRE-event Preparation

Expectations:

    In coordination with Alexis:

• Assist with name tags
• Proofread program materials
• Help with event preparations and supplies (signage, maps, communication, as needed)

Community Networking Event

Expectations:

• Registration desk
• Buffet assistance
• Event setup and breakdown
• Coordinate with Alexis and the Social Committee

MBI/ Symposium Scientific Program

Expectations:

• Registration desk: Greet, distribute registration materials, provide directions
• Help with Lunch activities and food distribution
• Serve as an event “rover” (check signage, replenish supplies, troubleshoot logistics)

Poster Session

    Expectations:

• Ensure poster numbers are complete and posted appropriately
• Manage the poster registration desk, provide direction to presenters
• Work with Symposium Committee Faculty in providing rating sheets/reviewing materials to Poster Judges
• Help with scoring and prize distribution
• To extent necessary, help with breakdown, removal of posters, etc.