Eyes for those who cannot see. Hands for those who cannot turn pages. 
Next Orientation for Prospective Volunteers– Thursday, March 15.
Virginia Voice, an independent, non-profit organization, provides an audio reading and information service for those who are unable to read for themselves because of a vision impairment or other disability. Our readings are broadcast by way of a special closed-circuit radio system. During the course of a week’s broadcast we read from more than 100 publications. At least 100 volunteer readers are needed for the production of each week’s programming. We also have an ongoing need for volunteers to assist in a number of other ways.
Readers (an audition is required): We are dependent on volunteers for all the reading. “Live” reading is done by a team of two readers, alternating articles. Recorded readings are done in individual studios with the volunteer reader operating the recording computer. The recording process is not difficult and the only computer skill absolutely required is the ability to use a mouse. Staff is always available for training and assistance. Volunteer readers may commit to a specified amount of time each week, or may prefer to be ”on-call” as needed. Actual time involved may vary from a one-hour reading per week to two hours twice a month, depending on the volunteer’s availability and the Voice’s needs. For more information, see Volunteer Reader FAQ.
Radio Deliverers: Volunteer radio deliverers are the first, sometimes the only, face-to-face contact our listeners have with Virginia Voice. Deliverers need to be “people persons.”
Board Operators: These volunteers need to have computer experience, a good broadcast voice and technical aptitude. Volunteer Board Operators are occasionally needed on a weekday evening or a Saturday morning or Sunday afternoon in the event of staff emergency. Responsibilities may include handling a “live” broadcast as well as helping volunteers with the recording process and setting up the broadcast computer for overnight programming.
Production Assistants: These volunteers assist with the creation of special recorded projects using the audio editing software Sound Forge and Windows XP.
Special Events: Volunteers are necessary in the setting up of special events, such as our annual volunteer recognition party.
Spokespersons: We often participate in “Health Fairs” at various locations in the area. We need volunteers to “man” a table, providing information and answering questions about the Voice. Orientation and training are provided.
The Out-of-Sight Players: Two dozen volunteers with a flair for fun and drama are in desperate need of a director. Past productions include Alice’s Adventures Through the Looking Glass, The 13 Clocks, and A Christmas Carol. If you have experience with directing radio plays and a love of corralling and organizing volunteers, please call contact Becky at remmett@virginiavoice.org
Interviewers: Do you have professional experience in broadcast interviewing? There’s room for you as we expand our special programs.
Office Assistants: We occasionally require help in the office with preparation of mass mailings.
ProspectiveVolunteers must attend an Orientation. Orientations are held in the Conference Room of the Library and Resource Center of the Virginia Dept. for the Blind and Vision Impaired, 395 Azalea Avenue, where Virginia Voice is located. Orientations in 2012 will be held from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m., on the following Thursdays: January 19, February 16, March 15, April 19, May 17, June 21, and July 19. Dates for the remainder of the year are not yet determined. If you plan to attend an Orientation, please let us know. Call 804-266-2477 or email Rebecca Emmett, Program Director, at remmett@virginiavoice.org. Remember, check this page on the day of the Orientation to be sure there is no cancellation due to weather or other emergency.
