Volunteer at The Octagon

Octagon volunteers enjoy special perks such as discounts at the AIA Store, free admission, special invitations and discounts to Octagon events, among others. We are currently recruiting for Museum Docents and Special Events Volunteers.

Apply to volunteer >

Museum Docents

Docents provide tours of the historic Octagon house and manage front desk operations.

• Commitment—at least one shift per month. Shifts include, a private tour, assisting with a special event/program/exhibit launch and/or regular museum hours
• Training—virtual and onsite components, docent handbook, supplemental materials, and hands on training opportunities
• Benefits—free Octagon membership, 20% discount in AIA bookstore, invitations to special and member-only events, volunteer events and outings
• Qualifications—eager to engage with the public, enjoy connecting with visitors from around the world, excited about our mission and telling the story of the Octagon. Minimum age is 16. Both student service-learning hours and internship hours are encouraged.
• Please be advised, The Octagon is not ADA Accessible and there are multiple flights of stairs throughout the house.

Special Events

Provide critical staffing for special events and rentals. These may include exhibit openings/programs/AF events and private rentals

• Commitment—one event per quarter (potentially once a month/one bimonthly as we reopen and host more events)
• Training—virtual and onsite components, volunteer handbook, and hands on training opportunities
• Benefits— free Octagon membership, 20% discount in the AIA Store, invitations to special and member-only events, volunteer events and outings
• Qualifications—enjoy assisting with special events and public facing duties as assigned

Other Ways to Get Involved

Serve as a scholarship application reviewer

Juries of diverse and talented leaders in architecture and related industries contribute time and insight to our scholarship selection process. We are always eager to hear from individuals interested in serving on a scholarship jury. Time commitments vary for each jury, and more information can be provided for prospective jurors. Our Fall scholarships are typically reviewed between March-May, and our Summer scholarships are typically reviewed between July-September.

Learn more about AF’s scholarships >
Sign up for the selection committee interest list >

Serve on our Board of Directors

Architects Foundation’s board of directors is composed of experienced leaders with diverse skills and backgrounds united by a shared interest in shaping the future of the design industry and the built environment. New members are appointed annually for three-year terms, and seek additional appointments for board committee members on an ongoing basis. Interested candidates should send resumes to development@architectsfoundation.org.