Volunteer Opportunities

Interested in architecture and history?

There are many ways to support the mission of the Architectural Heritage Center by volunteering your time and expertise. Your volunteer support is welcomed and much appreciated. For more information on specific volunteer tasks or committees, contact Volunteer & Rentals Manager Ita Lindquist, ital@visitahc.org or 503-231-7264.

Examples of volunteer activities:

  • Staff the front desk at the AHC – greet visitors, answer the phone, handle inquiries, sell memberships and take program reservations. Be an “ambassador” for the AHC.
  • Catalogue our collection and work with artifacts to prepare them for storage or exhibits – both physical and computer jobs available.
  • Help out with events like the annual Auction and the Old House Revival Tour, as well as exhibit openings and other receptions.
  • Turn your knowledge of architecture and history into public programs, walking tours, or exhibits.
  • Assist staff with graphic design, social media updates, web site or database maintenance to promote our mission.

Join a committee – make an “in depth” contribution and work with AHC staff members on our activities and programs.  (See examples below.)

AHC Volunteer Committees

Help increase awareness of the AHC and promotes its programs.

The Advocacy Committee  advocates for the preservation of the art, craft, and context of historic buildings and places to promote our cultural heritage as a vital element of livable, sustainable, communities, with a focus on the Portland Metro region. Volunteers with expertise in architecture, architectural history, art history, historic preservation, and public relations may be interested.

 

The Auction Committee works year round on this gala fund raiser held each October. The Committee, led by a volunteer Auction Chair, oversees overall planning for the event. Opportunities are also available to volunteer for subcommittees that procure auction items, sell auction and raffle tickets, create decorations, organize set-up, supervise registration, and help with the silent and oral auctions.

 

The Collections/Exhibits Committee reviews and decides on acquisitions, helps catalogue the collection, and works with the Curator to plan and install exhibits. Committee members should have a background or interest in architecture, art history, and/or historic preservation. Specialized skills or knowledge of specific artifact categories is also a plus.

 

The Education Committee oversees an extensive roster of programs and neighborhood walking tours which deal with many aspects of architecture and historic preservation.  Committee members create new programs, recommend speakers for other programs, and help on the day of the event.  In addition, Committee members are encouraged to learn existing programs and present them. Knowledge of local history, architecture and/or historic preservation issues is desirable.

Serve as a catalyst in the region…

  • Call attention to threatened historic buildings
  • Help inform the discussion of their preservation and re-use.
  • Build coalitions for creative problem-solving that balance needs of property owners, neighborhoods, developers, and government.

Preservation does not mean being frozen in time. New isn’t inherently “bad,” nor is old inherently “good.” But we believe a vintage building shouldn’t be demolished without careful consideration of its architectural, environmental, and cultural value, or without exploring possibilities for re-use. We also believe that in-fill construction should be compatible with the character, style, and scale of traditional neighborhoods.

AHC Programs strive to be:

  • Relevant
  • Authentic
  • Pro-active
  • Constructive
  • Practical
  • Inclusive
  • Inspirational
  • Resource-full

  • Apply to be an AHC Volunteer

    Your volunteer support is welcomed and appreciated. Please let us know how you’d like to be involved by marking the general area or specific activity and providing your contact information.

  • Areas of Interest

    The Architectural Heritage Center employs volunteers in a wide variety of positions. Please check the general areas that interest you, and check the specific activities you would like to be involved with.
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