Montrose council discusses April 30 volunteer fair, logistics and outreach

City staff asked the City Council for direction on a proposed volunteer fair and what the city should provide versus what participating groups should bring.

"Staff has been discussing this and we wanted to have a discussion with you guys about what your expectations are for this event and sort of some direction on what we're gonna need to provide as far as the city," a staff member told the council during the workshop. Staff suggested inviting local groups such as the Lions Club, Grace Place, Celebrate Montrose, city commissions and the Chamber, and recommended each group bring its own signage and sign-up sheets.

Council members offered additions and volunteers to recruit groups. A council member asked whether the fire department should be invited; staff confirmed the department was not yet listed and a different council member volunteered to contact them. The council also discussed outreach to local schools and commissions; staff said they would provide commission descriptions and application materials so commission representatives could speak to potential volunteers.

Members discussed whether to include youth organizations such as the Boy Scouts and noted the event should avoid appearing to recruit children. "We're not really looking at a kid event," staff said, and council members agreed volunteers should be adults or parents where appropriate.

Staff asked for a participant list so the city could begin advertising. On timing and logistics staff proposed a start time and duration: "So it's supposed to start at 06:30 on April 30," a staff member said, recommending a 6:30–8:00 p.m. window with two hours for groups to set up before the event. Staff also proposed providing light refreshments and confirmed the event would be free for participating groups.

Next steps: council members volunteered to contact specific groups over the coming week and staff will prepare advertising and logistical support based on the list of participants.