Marketing Volunteer: Collections Project

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PURPOSE:

Assist the Society’s Marketing and Curatorial departments by managing an archival project spanning 20 years’ worth of marketing and public relations files for DHS. The volunteer in this role can expect to see project to completion and will be required to document their process for review by Society staff.

DUTIES:

• Correctly handle objects as outlined by training;
• Inventory and catalogue a backlog of print, video and photographic marketing materials related to the Detroit Historical Society, the Detroit Historical Museum and Dossin Great Lakes Museum;
• Work with DHS Curatorial team to accession and digitize notable items according to DHS standards;
• Update PastPerfect database records and access various computer programs to complete collections and research tasks;
• Conduct limited research using various means including archive records, library and online resources, when necessary;
• Scan selected historical documents and archival items into database;
• Collaborate with Curatorial team to return selected items to partner organizations and groups, where necessary;
• Recommend working process to organize and archive marketing materials moving forward.

SUGGESTED SCHEDULING:

This is a term-limited role lasting for approximately 4-6 months (16-24 weeks) in length. All volunteers must have the ability to provide 4-8 hours per week for a minimum 16 weeks, or until project completion. There are no exceptions.

Length of time for each shift will be established between the volunteer and Society staff in advance for efficient scheduling; although the volunteer will be expected to be in attendance for the duration of their shift.

There will be a one month trial period for this volunteer position. DHS will work with each volunteer to assign duties that are a best fit for our needs and each individual interest level.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• An interest in marketing and local history;
• Intermediate computer skills;
• Maintain the ability to follow precise directions;
• Efficiency in spelling, grammar and have good writing skills;
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds;
• Maintain attention span for performing repetitive tasks;
• Ability to sit for long periods of time;
• Maintain the ability to work individually and as part a team environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Volunteers should expect a predominately intimate and quiet working environment. This volunteer position is located in the administrative wing of the Society offices, and will be a predominately solitary role. All administrative work will normally be performed in a typical clerical/office work environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

While performing the duties of this role, the volunteer will be frequently required to sit, stand and walk. Periodically, volunteers will be asked to lift boxes up to 20 lbs.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this volunteer role.

TRAINING & SUPPORT:

Volunteers will receive on-the-job training for every task they are required to perform; including training in accessions, Society standards in research, inventory procedures, the PastPerfect database and in a variety of areas of need within our Collections and Curatorial departments throughout the course of this volunteer role.