Want to help at the DNC? Volunteer recruitment kicks off with suburbanites sought

Democratic National Convention leaders are seeking volunteer whisperers to recruit thousands of unpaid helpers required to make the event a success.

Overall, 100 committed and enthusiastic “neighborhood ambassadors” from the city and suburbs are needed for outreach work, Chicago 2024 Host Committee officials said Monday.

“We need 12,000 volunteers to successfully host the convention in August,” said Mo Green, host committee director of civic and community engagement. “Our neighborhood ambassadors will be crucial for reaching that goal.”

Organizers will select 100 ambassadors, 77 from Chicago neighborhoods and 23 from the surrounding suburbs.

Applications will be taken through Feb. 9. To learn more, go to chicago2024.com/neighborhoodambassadorprogram.

About 50,000 people are expected to visit Chicago for the convention scheduled for Aug. 19 to 22 at McCormick Place and the United Center.

Ambassadors are asked to commit between five and 10 hours a week. Duties includes recruiting a minimum of 50 volunteers to assist with the convention, hosting neighborhood events and communicating with volunteers about plans.

Ambassadors must live in the neighborhoods they are representing, and have experience in community leadership and civic involvement.

The position is not paid but individuals who attract the highest numbers of volunteers will be entered into a contest with prizes including a credential to attend the DNC.