Needs From: United Way of Lancaster County

Duties/Protocol for Wedding Volunteer

Wedding volunteers observe weddings that take place at the Historic Ephrata Cloister and ensure that policies and procedures are followed by wedding party members and guests. Weddings occur mainly during the late spring, summer, and early fall season on the grounds of the Ephrata Cloister.

Here's a brief summary of duties:

Volunteers must be able to climb one flight of stairs, place fabric seat covers on benches

Front Desk Associates pleasantly greet the wide array of visitors who come to the Historic Ephrata Cloister. They process admission sales and answer general inquiries. Our Associates direct visitors to where the tour begins and share the variety of experiences visitors might expect. A general comfort working with the public and working with a cash register is desired. Volunteers must complete a criminal background check.

The Museum Store Volunteer works in concert with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission to promote and develop the Ephrata Cloister historic site. Museum Store staff work under the supervision of the Museum Store Manager. Work schedules show volunteer workdays and hours, and are posted in the staff drawer behind sales counter. Except for emergencies, changes in the museum store sales staff schedule should be posted two weeks in advance. Must have physical ability to lift 30lbs, answer phones, use touch screen and scanner for POS system.

All volunteers shall:

1 - Complete site orientation course with a manual of interpretation

(this is important because many visitor questions end up with store staff)

2 - Under the manager’s direction - keep store filled with stock, have a

thorough knowledge of stock warehousing, learn pertinent information

concerning various craftsmen whose items are represented in the store

3 - use proper sales procedures through the Point of Sale System

4 - clean and tidy the store as needed

5 - take inventory if requested

6 - perform related duties as requested

7 - is punctual in arriving at the workplace and courteous to all visitors

8 - After a time of training be willing to work in the store alone.

9 - must have the physical ability to lift 30 pounds

*Volunteers must have a valid drivers' license and complete a criminal background check*

Share your passion and energy for the history of the Ephrata Cloister with tourists, families, and local residents. In 45 minutes, tour guides take small to large groups of visitors including international tourists inside three historic structures and briefly share the unique stories of the lives of the people that lived at the Ephrata Cloister in the 18th century. Guides must be comfortable working with the public and be willing to be trained in mild collections care.