Event Volunteer – 2027 Justice Photojournalism Contest & Showcase

Organization: The Chicago Reporter

Location: Row 24, 2411 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL (in person)

Date & Time: Thursday, May 20, 2027 · Volunteer shifts from 4:00 PM through event close (program begins at 6:30 PM)

About Us

For more than five decades, The Chicago Reporter has used investigative journalism to examine race, poverty, and income inequality in Chicago. We expose inequities, hold institutions accountable, and lift up stories that mainstream media often overlook. Our annual Justice Photojournalism Contest & Showcase carries that mission into visual storytelling. It celebrates photographers whose work documents racial and social justice, and it invites our community into conversation about the issues behind the images.

About the Opportunity

We're looking for warm, dependable volunteers to help us host an evening for about 150 photographers, journalists, community members, civic leaders, and supporters. You'll be part of the team that makes guests feel welcome, keeps the night running smoothly, and helps the photographers' work shine.

Volunteer Roles (you'll be assigned one specific role ahead of time)

• Setup crew (from 4:00 PM): Set up easels and the photo exhibition, signage, the step-and-repeat, and Chicago Reporter branding
• Registration & check-in: Greet guests and check them in quickly with our QR scanning system
• Accessibility & wayfinding: Help guests find the elevator, seating, and event spaces, and offer an escort when needed
• People's Choice voting ambassador: Explain how audience voting works and point guests to the voting QR code
• Auction & giving ambassador: Point guests to the silent and art auction and the donation QR codes throughout the venue
• Breakdown crew: Pack up the exhibition and help clear the venue at the end of the night

What We're Looking For

• A friendly, welcoming presence and comfort talking with guests
• Reliability: you'll confirm your attendance in advance and arrive on time for your shift
• Ability to follow a role briefing and work as part of a team
• Comfort with a smartphone (for QR check-in and voting)
• A passion for journalism, photography, the arts, or social justice is a plus, but not required
• Setup and breakdown roles involve standing and light lifting

Time Commitment

• One pre-event volunteer briefing call (about 30–45 minutes, date to be announced)
• Event-day shift of about 3–5 hours, depending on your role

What You'll Gain

• A behind-the-scenes look at producing a major community journalism event
• Chances to connect with Chicago photojournalists, reporters, and civic leaders
• Access to the exhibition and program
• Light refreshments during your shift
• A volunteer letter or reference on request

How to Apply

Click "I'm Interested" and tell us which role you'd most like to fill. Questions? Contact info@chicagoreporter.com

The Chicago Reporter welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities. Please let us know about any accommodations you need.