Night Market 831 Community Event VolunteerAt — Elevate 831 (Night Market 831)

Opportunity Summary 

Join the Elevate 831 team in producing Night Market 831, a free, family-friendly community event held on the first Friday of every month at Sand City Art Park (525 Ortiz Ave).  This is a public outdoor evening event (5–9 PM) that celebrates local artists, musicians, food vendors, and small businesses.

Volunteers help bring this vibrant local market to life by assisting with event setup, welcoming guests, supporting vendors and community partners, and helping with cleanup after the event.

Volunteers gain hands-on experience in community event production, public engagement, and teamwork while supporting a nonprofit-led initiative that uplifts the 831 community. Shifts may include light to moderate lifting and require closed-toe shoes. Some evening hours are required, and supervision may vary as volunteers rotate between areas.

Ideal for students interested in event management, marketing, public service, audio/visual or production management, or community development.

4 service learner spots

Must be available:

  • Friday (first Friday of every month)
  • 2 - 10 PM
  • other work for social media, storytelling, etc will be done virtually

Requirements:

  • Pre-training in safety and engagement protocols
  • Moderate lifting and close-toed shoes
Opportunity Training 

Volunteers will receive a comprehensive on-site orientation led by Elevate 831 staff prior to their first shift. Training covers event layout, safety protocols, lifting and setup procedures, volunteer expectations, and effective communication with vendors and the public. Participants will also learn about community engagement strategies, the mission of Elevate 831 and Night Market 831, and how the event supports local small businesses, artists, and nonprofits.

During each shift, volunteers will be paired with experienced team leads who provide hands-on guidance and mentorship in event coordination, crowd interaction, and problem-solving. This training helps service learners develop transferable skills in teamwork, leadership, and public service while contributing to a positive community experience.

Opportunity Supervision

Service learners will receive continuous support and supervision from Elevate 831 staff throughout their placement. A designated Volunteer Coordinator or Event Lead will be on-site during all events to provide guidance, answer questions, and ensure volunteers feel comfortable and confident in their roles.

Between events, volunteers can communicate directly with Elevate 831 staff via email or phone for scheduling, feedback, or clarification. Regular check-ins and debriefs after each market allow students to reflect on their experiences, share ideas, and develop new skills in community engagement and event production.

Elevate 831 fosters a welcoming, inclusive, and team-oriented environment where service learners are encouraged to take initiative, ask questions, and grow their confidence in public-facing roles. Our goal is to ensure every volunteer feels valued, supported, and connected to the community they are helping to elevate.

Additional risk specific to this opportunity 

KNOWN HAZARDS:

Night Market 831 is an outdoor community event that may involve moderate lifting during setup and breakdown. Participants could be asked to move tables, tents, sandbags, signage, or other event materials. To minimize risk, closed-toe shoes and proper lifting techniques are required at all times. While no hazardous materials, machinery, or tools are used, participants should exercise caution when handling equipment and be mindful of trip hazards such as cords or uneven pavement. Regular breaks and hydration are encouraged, especially during setup hours.

SITE LOCATION: Parking and work areas may not be secure or adequately illuminated.

The market takes place at Sand City Art Park, an open, outdoor venue that operates after dark (5–9 PM). Lighting is provided throughout the event area, but parking and load-in zones may have limited illumination. Volunteers and participants should use extra caution when walking or unloading in dimly lit areas. The event is open to the general public and draws large, diverse crowds, so situational awareness and attention to personal belongings are important.

SUPERVISION: Students may be required to work at night (after 6pm). And students may be supervised less than 50% of the time or the supervisor will be overseeing more than 8 people.

Volunteers and students assisting at Night Market 831 will be scheduled during evening hours (after 6 PM), including setup and cleanup. Supervisors from Elevate 831 will be present throughout the event, but due to the large footprint and multiple activity zones (vendors, stage, kids’ area, etc.), direct supervision may not always be continuous. Clear instructions and safety briefings are provided in advance, and staff are easily reachable on-site for assistance. Participants are expected to work responsibly, follow directions, and maintain professional conduct while engaging with the general public.

Opportunity Application Instructions 

Students or service learners interested in volunteering with Night Market 831 can reach out directly to:

Michelle Findlay, Producer and Volunteer Coordinator for Elevate 831
michelle@elevate831.com

Please include your name, contact information, and availability.  You’ll receive details about upcoming event dates, available shifts, and orientation information.

 

Program 
Service Learning
Location Type 
On-site
Location 
Sand City, CA
United States
Students required to have a personal vehicle 
No
Fees students may incur with this opportunity 
No Fees will be incurred by students
This opportunity provides some form of compensation 
No
Opportunity Availability 
Ongoing