Participants in the Encore! Volunteer Program at the Eisemann Center are recognized by their crisp white dress shirt, black slacks or skirt, and black shoes paired with a distinctive black vest and a volunteer name tag. They have been an important part of the facility since its opening nearly 20 years ago. Eisemann has hosted premier events ranging from Broadway-style shows to high school performances, ballets, symphonies, corporate seminars, art showcases and much more.
“Our volunteer program is a huge, integral part of the Eisemann Center,” said House Manager Pam Polsky. “They are ticket takers, ushers, greeters and administrative office personnel. They’re often the first person patrons talk to when they walk in the door or when they call.”
The need for volunteers is as broad as the Centers’ offerings, including daytime slots, weeknight and weekend shifts. Each event usually calls for between four and 25 volunteers, depending upon its size. The Center’s volunteers typically work about 25 hours per month.
“Our volunteer group is a tight-knit family–from high-schoolers to retirees, working parents, couples and single folks,” Polsky said. “They enjoy not just the actual work itself, but the community here.”
Richardson resident Micki Webb is in her third year of volunteering at the Eisemann. “I’ve been associated with the arts for many years. Once I retired, I thought I would volunteer my time. It was a perfect fit,” she said. “You get to see the back of the house and how the Center functions. There are a lot of different people you meet and it’s fun.”
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old, complete an application, an interview, a background check and attend a volunteer orientation. Regular volunteers come from Richardson and from surrounding communities. “We’re always looking to recruit more volunteers,” Polsky said.
To learn more, visit www.eisemanncenter.com/ volunteer, e-mail volunteer.eisemann@cor.gov or call 972-744-4668.
