Event Organizer (Volunteer)

MNeurodivergent is seeking Event Organizers to help create safe, welcoming, and inclusive in-person gatherings for neurodivergent adults across Minnesota. Event Organizers are essential to our mission of reducing isolation and building peer-led community through consistent local events.

This role involves planning and hosting community-based gatherings such as game nights, coffee meetups, park days, art events, and other low-pressure social opportunities. Event Organizers help ensure that events remain accessible, affirming, and aligned with MNeurodivergent’s values.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys planning social opportunities, supporting community connection, and helping create radically welcoming spaces for neurodivergent people.

Key Responsibilities

Event Planning & Hosting

• Plan and host inclusive in-person events (examples: coffee meetups, board game nights, crafting/art gatherings, park meetups, casual dinners, etc.)
• Coordinate event logistics such as:
  • date/time selection
  • venue selection and accessibility considerations
  • basic planning needs (supplies, activities, etc.)
  • event communication/updates to attendees
• Create a welcoming and structured event environment that supports neurodivergent needs

Accessibility & Community Safety

• Help ensure events are sensory-aware and accessible when possible
• Maintain a welcoming environment aligned with MNeurodivergent community expectations (respect, boundaries, inclusion)
• Monitor event tone and safety; escalate concerns when needed through the appropriate organizational channels

Volunteer Communication & Collaboration

• Coordinate with your local Community Coordinator (or Twin Cities Coordinator, if applicable) for guidance, support, and scheduling
• Collaborate with other volunteers (co-hosts, event support volunteers, etc.) to make events sustainable
• Provide basic post-event updates such as attendance estimates and feedback notes

What This Role Does NOT Include

To keep the role manageable and clearly defined:

• Event Organizers are not responsible for tabling logistics at festivals or conventions
• Event Organizers do not handle background checks or final approval of volunteers (this is managed by the Volunteer Committee)

Qualifications

• Passion for creating accessible and affirming community for neurodivergent people
• Reliability and strong communication skills
• Comfort hosting or facilitating small group gatherings
• Ability to follow organizational community standards and safety expectations
• Experience with event planning, facilitation, peer support, or community leadership is helpful but not required
• Must be based in (or able to travel to) the community you are supporting

Time Commitment

• Estimated 2–6 hours per week, depending on event frequency and event size
• Typically includes:
  • planning + communication
  • hosting events (often evenings/weekends)
  • occasional volunteer check-ins/meetings

Many volunteers choose to host 1–2 events per month, though frequency can vary by region.

Benefits of Volunteering

• Help reduce isolation and build meaningful connection for neurodivergent adults
• Gain experience in event planning, facilitation, and inclusive community-building
• Receive support from MNeurodivergent leadership and peer volunteers
• Become part of a statewide network working to make Minnesota more welcoming and accessible