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Volunteer Opportunities

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 visual 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. Volunteers are an integral part of the service. At least 100 readers are needed for the production of each week's programming, and we 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. Volunteer readers may commit to a specified amount of time each week, or may prefer to be “substitute” readers, being “on-call” as needed. Actual time involved may vary from a two-hour reading per week to one hour a month, depending on the volunteer’s availability and the Voice’s needs.

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.”

Office Assistants:  We occasionally require help in the office with preparation of mass mailings.

Board Operators:  These volunteers need to have computer experience, a good broadcast voice and technical aptitude.  They may volunteer for a specified time period each week, or occasionally as needed.

Production Assistants:  These volunteers assist with the creation of special recorded projects using Sound Forge and Windows XP. 

Interviewers:  We need volunteers who have professional experience in broadcast interviewing.

Special Events:  We need volunteers to assist with 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:  Readers who have been with the Voice for at least six months and who have a flair for the dramatic are eligible for this group.  Past productions include Alice’s Adventures Through the Looking Glass and A Christmas Carol.  We have a need for volunteers with directing experience who are willing to organize rehearsals and direct a production.


Prospective Volunteers 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. Orientation dates for the remainder of 2008 are the following Wednesday evenings, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.: May 21, June 18, July 16, September 17, October 15 and November 19. To sign up for an Orientation or to request further information, call 804-266-2477 or email Rebecca Emmett, Program Director, at emmettrp@verizon.net.

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