Program Coordinator (Events)

Type:    Full Time, Permanent, Remote               Report to: Executive Director               

Salary: $40,000 - $43,900                                  Posted: January 4, 2025

Description:

The Program Coordinator is responsible for creating and overseeing the overall strategy and day-to-day implementation of HGA's in-house programs and services (Convergence^® conference, Spinning & Weaving Week celebration, Guild Development Retreat, etc.). Programs are designed to provide education, inspiration, and support. The Program Coordinator ensures that programs help to fulfill the organization's mission; plans and executes programs; and assesses their effectiveness. The position supports and reports to the Executive Director.

Office hours are from 9 AM to 5:30 PM ET, Monday-Friday, with occasional evening and weekend hours. Some travel is required (approximately 10-14 days per year). Physical demands include sitting or standing for extended periods and the ability to lift and carry boxes and equipment up to 40 pounds. This is a remote work-from-home position, but preference will be given to candidates who reside in one of the following states: Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, or Wisconsin.

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in development and management of all programs and events.
• Provide administrative support for a menu of programs including Convergence^® conference, Spinning & Weaving Week, Guild Development Retreat, and others. This may entail application processing, outreach, report tracking and evaluation, meeting logistics, and managing volunteers.
• Event planning and logistics management for HGA’s biennial fiber art Convergence^® conference and HGA’s annual virtual Spinning & Weaving Week celebration. This may entail seeking proposals, negotiating contracts, developing work plans, budgeting, material and program development, media assistance, and execution.
• Proactively identify potential event partners through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls, emails, direct mail, networking events, and client visits. Engage and schedule meetings to discuss sponsorship opportunities, follow-up development sponsorship proposals, and communicate results and decisions to Executive Director.
• Serve as liaison between the organization and contracted artists and volunteers.
• Effectively utilize and manage volunteers including the hiring and supervision of conference interns.
• Assist in the marketing of the programs. Work with the Communications Coordinator to develop content for marketing materials.
• Track, monitor, and develop reports on the progress made towards HGA’s performance measures/community indicators.
• Continuously monitor and create mechanisms for internal and external evaluation of the effectiveness of all programs and engagement activities and implement programmatic and strategic changes as needed.
• Regularly evaluate and improve upon the quality of the overall participant experience.
• Provide exemplary and proactive customer service to all internal and external clients such as members, teachers, vendors, board members, etc. Answer questions and dispense information about programs, policies, and procedures. Manage and respond to complaints.
• Manage fiscal expenditures and revenue including spending for program supplies and equipment; efficiency rate of related service providers; monitor registration and participation and other fiscal issues.
• Exercise confidentiality and integrity upon handling personal and financial customer information.
• This list of essential duties, tasks and responsibilities is not all-inclusive; individual will perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Event management and/or logistics experience.
• Account management experience, marked by strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and persistent follow‐up.
• Experience in forging and developing relationships with clients and an understanding of the business culture with a solid network of contacts in the fiber art community.
• A resourceful style with the ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple tasks and projects while meeting required deadlines and project milestones.
• Flexibility to embrace change and unexpected opportunities.
• Creative and strategic thinker and team player.
• Experience with outreach and community building.
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding of diversity.
• Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic skills; strong ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisor, fellow employees, volunteers, and general public.
• Technology aptitude and experience with emphasis on managing computer-based information and data.
• Education and experience in the fiber arts is preferred.

Qualifications:

Qualified applicants may possess any combination of education and experience enabling them to successfully perform the responsibilities of the position. Preferred qualifications are: Bachelor's degree from four-year accredited college/university and 2-3 professional years' experience (internships and other educational experience will be considered). Experience as a handweaver, spinner, or dyer. An expert with MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience with the following software is a plus: NeonCRM (or similar CRM), Cvent, Microsoft 365, Proofhub (or similar project management software), and Reviewr. Strong teamwork skills to collaborate with staff and volunteers. Passion for the organization’s mission is a must!

This is a work-from-home position. Employees are expected to have a modern computer with an HD webcam, printer, high-speed internet, and a dedicated workspace without distractions. Dual monitors are recommended but not required. HGA will provide all software, which is 100% web-based (in the cloud), envelopes, paper, printer ink, and a VOIP phone.

Benefits:

Complimentary HGA membership, medical and life insurance, flexible work hours, 8 paid holidays, and Personal Time Off (PTO) which increases with the length of employment.

To Apply:
Submit cover letter and resume by email to ExecutiveDirector@WeaveSpinDye.org. Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Leader (Convergence)

Type:    Contract (July/August 2026)     

Salary: $120/Hour

Convergence^® Sessions are offered in the following formats:

• 90-Minute Seminars are generally an oral session in a lecture format or a simple project. Seminars usually require the participant to bring minimal supplies such as pen and paper and generally have no materials fee.
• 3-Hour Seminars are either an in-depth lecture or an introductory hands-on “how-to” course designed to give participants skills or knowledge to take back and implement at home.
• 1-Day, 2-Day and 3-Day Workshops offer 6, 12, or 18 hours of in-depth exploration of the subject matter with hands-on instruction. Workshops may require pre-conference preparation by the participant. Workshops will have limited enrollment to provide participants with a more engaging experience. Note: HGA accepts a limited number of 3-Day Workshops.

HGA seeks a diverse selection of Session proposals. We are looking to offer our conference participants a variety of beginner, intermediate, and advanced Sessions to choose from including traditional fiber arts experiences and Sessions that are new, innovative, and unique to Convergence^®. Approximately 65% of Convergence^® participants have attended past conferences so new and innovative Sessions will be welcomed. Participants come from all over the United States and from around the world. HGA will assist attendees traveling from afar with loom rentals, but availability will be limited. When planning your Session, please remember the restrictions that travel may impose on participants’ ability to bring supplies for your proposed Session.

Proposed Sessions will be evaluated based on overall quality, relevance to the industry, well-defined focus and objectives, practical applications of the material, relevance and timeliness of the topic, originality of material, hands-on learning for immediate application, educator qualifications (including the level of speaking experience and expertise), and competition as compared to other proposals. Each Session must be educational. Sessions to advertise a program, product, or service for sale are unacceptable. Convergence^® Leaders are expected to comply with copyright law in selecting materials and images for their Sessions and are responsible for their permission of use in HGA’s marketing materials.

Non-Compete. HGA does not impose any restrictions on teaching the same Session outside of Convergence^®. However, please keep in mind that by doing so you may dilute the number of participants in your Convergence^® Session. Low enrollment may lead to cancellation.

Enrollment. HGA requires Leaders to accept a minimum of 16 students per Session, however, HGA reserves the right to run a Session should enrollment fall below. Sessions with 20 or more students may request assistance from a Convergence^® Intern provided it is requested with the proposal.

Convergence^® Interns. These students are currently enrolled in accredited fiber arts programs at the undergraduate or graduate level. The program is designed to assist with career development by providing real work experiences that provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and develop professional skills and competencies while providing the Leader with a capable assistant to help manage a larger enrollment in their Session. HGA strongly encourages participation.

WiFi. HGA does not provide internet service for Convergence^® Sessions as it is cost-prohibitive. We recognize the role that technology can play in presenting information. While we would like to provide internet access and fulfill the technical equipment needs of our Convergence^® Leaders, we are not able to do so. Some conference facilities may offer free WiFi, but reliability cannot be guaranteed. Please contact the HGA office for more information about availability before submitting a proposal.

Supplies and Equipment. These items must be requested in your proposal. HGA will provide static-cling dry-erase boards (size may vary) and projector screens or a white space to project upon. HGA does not provide projectors. For a full list of equipment provided by HGA (such as dye pots, sewing machines, etc.), please refer to the application. Supplies and equipment brought by the Leader may be shipped in advance to the conference Decorator. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the Convergence^® Leader. Upon selection of your Session and signing of the Convergence^® Leader Agreement, HGA will provide shipping instructions and a fee schedule.

Materials and Sales. Digital handouts, shared with Session participants in advance, are encouraged. Convergence^® Leaders may charge a materials fee for items they provide to their participants such as printed booklets, fiber, beads, dyes, etc. Please ensure that these fees are reasonable. Higher materials fees often dissuade registration. Convergence^® Leaders may not sell additional supplies, publications, or handcrafted items in the classroom or the public areas of the conference. HGA suggests Leaders connect with Convergence^® vendors to arrange for sales. HGA will also work with Leaders to provide a scheduled and advertised time in the HGA Leader booth where a Leader may sell these items if they prefer to sell directly to participants.

Membership. All Convergence^® Leaders must be or become HGA members upon receiving notification of proposal acceptance and must maintain membership through Convergence^®. Memberships start at $57/year (subject to change).

Scheduling. If more than one proposal is accepted, HGA will do its best to schedule your Sessions concurrently. When this is not possible, you may be eligible for additional hotel compensation.

Leader Compensation

1. Honoraria will be paid at a rate of $120 per hour of instruction ($180 for a 90-Minute Seminar; $360 for a 3-Hour Seminar; $720 for a 1-Day Workshop; $1,440 for a 2-Day Workshop; and $2,160 for a 3-Day Workshop). All Sessions will require a minimum of no less than 5 registered students or they will be subject to cancellation. Honoraria will be adjusted from the hourly rate to a per-student rate for Workshop Sessions with 5 to 11 registered students: $60 per student for a 1-Day Workshop, $120 per student for a 2-Day Workshop, and $180 per student for a 3-Day Workshop.
2. Travel Reimbursement of $75 for every three (3) hours of instruction (not to exceed $750) for any Leader residing 120 miles or more from the conference site. Leaders are responsible for arranging their own travel.
3. Hotel Compensation will be paid directly to a Convergence^® Hotel by HGA and will be provided at half (½) the cost (or 50% of the cost) of a double/double room night at a blocked room rate at a Convergence^® Hotel under the following schedule:

Leaders are responsible for making their own Convergence^® hotel reservation and securing a roommate. Leaders are responsible for any miscellaneous fees and services (e.g. food, movies, parking, room service, etc.).

4. Complimentary Convergence^® Conference Registration, includes daily admission to the Marketplace, Demonstrations, Panels, and Art Exhibits; 1 ticket to the Fashion Show; 1 ticket to the Keynote Speaker; an HGA Tote Bag; and discounted session registration.

Application Deadline: March 7, 2025

Selected individuals will be notified by June 30, 2025. For more information or if you have questions, please email HGA@WeaveSpinDye.org or call (678) 730-0010.

How to Apply

Step 1:   Preview the application and prepare your materials. You will need a current headshot and 2-3 images representative of your proposed session in JPG format with a minimum resolution of 300 PPI and labeled to our specifications.

                        Headshot:   Label the image using your last name and then first name.

Example: Smith_Joan.jpg

Session Image:   Label the image using your last name followed by the Session title.

Example: Smith_WeavingBasics.jpg

Step 2:   (Optional) Obtain letters of reference. The selection committee highly regards references that support your ability to teach the topic you are proposing and your skills as an instructor. You may use the same letters of reference if submitting multiple proposals or you may want to use a specific letter of reference for the session topic.

Step 3:   Complete and submit Session Proposal: https://my.reviewr.com/s2/site/Convergence2026

Info Session and Q&A

HGA will offer three informational Zoom sessions to assist you through the process. In these sessions, the HGA staff will discuss proposal guidelines, how to apply, and answer questions you may have about the process. Info sessions are scheduled for: December 13, 2024 at 1:00 PM ET, January 3, 2025 at 1:00 PM ET, and January 16, 2025 at 7:00 PM ET.

Art Sparks Leader (Spinning & Weaving Week)

Type:    Contract (October 6-12, 2025), Virtual     

Salary: $100/Hour

Art Sparks Sessions are sample classes or mini-workshops. They cover a hyper-specific topic and are often used to introduce participants to a new art form, technique, or equipment. They might be repurposed content or a unit from a larger online course. Art Sparks Sessions are offered in 30-minute and 1-hour segments and the following formats:

• Meeting Sessions are reserved for sessions that require a supply list and for the participants to work on camera alongside the Leader.
• Webinar Sessions are more “listen and learn” where participants can watch and use the Q&A to ask questions.

HGA seeks a diverse selection of proposals. We are looking to offer our participants a variety of topics to choose from including traditional fiber arts experiences and Sessions that are new, innovative, and unique. Being that these Sessions will be taught online, participants will be learning from their homes from around the world. When planning your Session, please remember the restrictions that teaching online may impose on participants’ ability to participate in your proposed Session.

Proposed Sessions will be evaluated based on overall quality, relevance to the industry, well- defined focus and objectives, practical applications of material, relevance and timeliness of the topic, originality of material, hands-on learning for immediate application, and educator qualifications (including level of speaking experience and expertise). Each Session must be educational. Sessions to advertise a program, product, or service for sale are unacceptable. Leaders are expected to comply with copyright law in selecting materials and images for their Sessions and are responsible for their permission of use in HGA’s marketing materials.

Non-Compete. HGA does not impose any restrictions on teaching the same Session outside of Spinning & Weaving Week. However, please keep in mind that by doing so you may dilute the number of participants in your Convergence^® Session. Low enrollment may lead to cancellation.

Enrollment. There is no limit to enrollment for Webinar sessions because of the format of the session. For hands-on Meeting sessions, HGA requires Leaders to accept a minimum of 12 students per Session, however, HGA reserves the right to run a Session should enrollment fall below.

Technology. Leaders should have a solid internet connection, good lighting, and a clear microphone. Professional equipment greater than a laptop camera and mic is recommended but not required. HGA’s Spinning & Weaving Week is presented on the Cvent platform and uses Zoom for its Sessions. All Leaders will be required to participate in a brief training 1-2 weeks before Spinning & Weaving Week.

Materials and Sales. Complimentary digital handouts (worksheets, written instructions, diagrams, drafts, etc.), shared with Session participants in advance, are encouraged. These may be attached to the Session for the participant to download. Leaders may offer participants an optional materials kit that complements the Session and may include things such as printed booklets, fiber, beads, dyes, etc. The kits should be optional, and participants should not feel excluded from the Session if they do not purchase the kit. Please ensure that fees for materials kits are reasonable. Higher materials fees often dissuade registration. Leaders may not sell additional supplies, publications, or handcrafted items in the Session.

Recording. All Art Sparks Sessions are recorded and available to view on the Cvent platform by registered participants for 90 days following Spinning & Weaving Week. Participants will not be able to download the recording. Because Sessions are recorded, it is to be expected that many participants will choose to watch a recorded Session instead of participating in real-time.

Scheduling. Sessions will be offered Monday – Sunday between the hours of 10 AM and 9 PM Eastern Time. Sessions will be scheduled based on the availability of the Leader per their application. HGA will do its best to minimize conflicts with other Sessions, but due to the format of the program, it is expected that some Sessions will run concurrently.

Membership. All Spinning & Weaving Week Leaders must be or become HGA members upon receiving notification of proposal acceptance and must maintain membership through the Spinning & Weaving Week Celebration.

Leader Compensation

1. Honoraria will be paid at a rate of $50 per 30-minutes of instruction ($50 for a 30-Minute Session and $100 for a 1-Hour Session). All Sessions will require a minimum of 5 registered participants or they will be subject to cancellation.
2. Complimentary Spinning & Weaving Week Registration includes daily admission to the Marketplace LIVE, Panels, Thread Talks, Studio Tours and Fashion show.

Application Deadline: May 1, 2025

Selected individuals will be notified by June 2, 2025. For more information or if you have questions, please email HGA@WeaveSpinDye.org or call (678) 730-0010.

Spinning & Weaving Week: October 6-12, 2025

How to Apply

Step 1: Preview the application and prepare your materials. You will need a current headshot and 2-3 images representative of your proposed session in JPG format with a minimum resolution of 300 PPI and labeled to our specifications.

                        Headshot:   Label the image using your last name and then first name.

Example: Smith_Joan.jpg

Session Image:   Label the image using your last name followed by the Session title.

Example: Smith_WeavingBasics.jpg

Step 2:   (Optional) Obtain letters of reference. The selection committee highly regards references that support your ability to teach the topic you are proposing and your skills as an instructor. You may use the same letters of reference if submitting multiple proposals or you may want to use a specific letter of reference for the session topic.

Step 3: Access the application at Reviewr. If this is your first time using Reviewr, you will need to create an account. This is separate from your HGA account.

Info Session and Q&A

HGA will offer three informational Zoom sessions to assist you through the process. In these sessions, the HGA staff will discuss proposal guidelines, how to apply, and answer questions you may have about the process. Info sessions are scheduled for: January 10, 2025 @ 1 PM ET, February 6, 2025 @ 7 PM ET, and March 14, 2025 @ 1 PM ET.

Board of Directors

Type:    Volunteer, Remote                                

Principle HGA Contact: Board President                  

Duration: 1-7 Years

Description:

The mission of the Handweavers Guild of America, Inc. (HGA) is to support, inspire, and educate the fiber art community. The Board will support the work of HGA and provide-mission based leadership and strategic governance. While day-to-day operations are led by HGA's Executive Director (ED), the Board-ED relationship is a partnership, and the appropriate involvement of the Board is both critical and expected. Board Member responsibilities include:

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the ED as she/he/they develops and implements the strategic plan.
• Review outcomes and metrics created by HGA for evaluating its impact, and regularly measuring its performance and effectiveness using those metrics; review agenda and supporting materials prior to board and committee meetings.
• Approve HGA's annual budget, audit reports, and material business decisions; being informed of, and meeting all, legal and fiduciary responsibilities.
• Fully engage in identifying and securing financial resources and partnerships necessary for HGA to advance its mission.
• Assist the ED and the board president in identifying and recruiting other volunteers and Board Members.
• Follow HGA's bylaws, policies, and board resolutions.
• Serve on committees or task forces and take on special assignments.
• Represent HGA to stakeholders; acting as an ambassador for the organization.
• Ensure HGA's commitment to a diverse board and staff that reflects the communities HGA serves.
• Sign an annual conflict-of-interest disclosure and update it during the year if necessary, as well as disclose potential conflicts before meetings and actual conflicts during meetings.
• Respect the experiences of all who bring their voices and lived experiences into the boardroom and HGA.
• Maintain confidentiality about all internal matters of HGA.

Fundraising

• HGA Board Members will consider HGA a philanthropic priority and make annual gifts that reflect that priority. So that HGA can credibly solicit contributions from foundations, organizations, and individuals, HGA expects to have 100 percent of Board Members make an annual contribution that is commensurate with their capacity.
• Sell tickets to events.
• Recruit sponsors as needed.
• Identify and cultivate potential donors.

Board Terms

Board appointments are for one (1) year. Board Members may be elected to serve a three (3) year term and then will be eligible for re-appointment for one additional term.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Ability to be passionate about the HGA’s mission and to network, build alliances, and generate excitement in others, in person, over the phone, and at events.
• Strong organizational and planning skills and persistent follow-up.
• Flexibility to embrace change and unexpected opportunities.
• Proficiency in computer applications for word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. Board members will be required to learn and use NeonCRM and ProofHub.

Qualifications:

• Must hold an active HGA membership (Student, Individual, Household, or Professional Artist) and for the duration of your service.
• Extensive professional or volunteer experience with significant leadership accomplishments in business, government, philanthropy, or the nonprofit sector.
• A commitment to and understanding of HGA's beneficiaries, preferably based on experience.
• Savvy diplomatic skills and a natural affinity for cultivating relationships and persuading, convening, facilitating, and building consensus among diverse individuals.
• Availability of schedule because serving on a board can take a considerable amount of time. It is advised against committing to other volunteer activities since the success of HGA depends on the ongoing and regular leadership of the organization.
• Commit to spending no less than five (5) hours per month on board responsibilities. The ability to offer more hours of service when needed is preferred.
• Ability to attend ten (10) board meetings each year via Zoom (third Monday of the month at 6:30 PM ET).
• This is a remote volunteer-from-home position. Board Members are expected to attend and participate in HGA events, programs, and activities.
• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a passion for HGA’s mission is a must!

Benefits:

• Complimentary registration for HGA’s virtual Spinning & Weaving Week Celebration
• Complimentary registration for HGA's virtual Guild Development Retreat
• Complimentary Convergence^® Value Package (CVP) includes:

• • Daily admission to the Marketplace, Demonstrations, Panels, and Art Exhibits
  • One ticket to the Fashion Show
  • One ticket to the Keynote Speaker
  • One ticket to the Thread Talks
  • HGA Tote Bag
  • Discounted Session Registration

To Apply: Click here to Apply

Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until all positions are filled.

Convergence^® Session Review Panel

Type:    Volunteer, Remote                                

Principle HGA Contact: Executive Director                  

Duration: 3 Months

Description:

Founded in 1969 to inspire creativity and encourage excellence in the fiber arts, the Handweavers Guild of America, Inc. (HGA), brings together weavers, spinners, dyers, basket makers, fiber artists, and educators as part of our mission to educate, support and inspire the fiber art community. With more than 4,000 members, we provide educational programs, conferences, and an award-winning quarterly publication, Shuttle Spindle & Dyepot.

HGA’s biennial 5-day Convergence^® conference is an immersion in the fiber arts with seminars, workshops, vendors, exhibits, a fashion show, tours, and more. In this volunteer role, you will receive behind-the-scenes experience in producing the conference while working side-by-side with the HGA staff. As a volunteer, you will develop relationships with members, vendors, teachers, and fiber art enthusiasts.

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Attend a Zoom training to learn how to use Reviewr to review and score proposals.
• Independently read and carefully review every Convergence^® Session proposal (anticipated quantity ranges between 300 and 500).
• Meet all deadlines and be ready to discuss proposals at each meeting/discussion that occurs before scoring.
• Maintain confidentiality of all Panel discussions.
• Adhere to the guidelines as outlined in the Convergence^® Session Proposal Review Process document.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• A broad knowledge of fiber arts.
• Ability to be passionate about the HGA’s mission.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Attention to detail and persistent follow-up.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies and standards.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Qualifications:

• Must be an HGA member.
• Availability of schedule because reviewing proposals can take a considerable amount of time.
• Flexible schedule with the ability to attend a minimum of four meetings held weekday evenings or weekend afternoons (determined by overall panel availability) via Zoom.
• Must have a computer (proposal review will take place on the web), internet access, and webcam.
• Attendance at or previous involvement with Convergence^®
• Passion for HGA’s mission is a must!

Benefits:

• Priority Convergence^® registration.
• Complimentary Convergence^® 2026 and 2028 Value Package (CVP), includes:

• • Daily admission to the Marketplace, Demonstrations, Panels, and Art Exhibits
  • One ticket to the Fashion Show
  • One ticket to the Keynote Speaker
  • One ticket to the Thread Talks
  • HGA Tote Bag
  • Discounted Session Registration

• Volunteer Appreciation Reception
• Complimentary registration for virtual HGA’s 2025 Spinning & Weaving Week Celebration

To Apply:
Application Form (first log into your HGA account): https://weavespindye.app.neoncrm.com/survey.jsp?surveyId=140&

Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Convergence^® Marketplace Coordinator

Type:    Volunteer, Remote                                

Principle HGA Contact: Executive Director                  

Duration: 18 Months

Description:

HGA’s biennial 5-day Convergence^® conference is an immersion in the fiber arts with seminars, workshops, vendors, exhibits, a fashion show, tours, and more. In this volunteer role, you will receive behind-the-scenes experience in producing the conference while working side-by-side with the HGA staff. As a volunteer, you will develop relationships with members, vendors, teachers, and fiber art enthusiasts.

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Proactively work with HGA staff to identify potential vendors for the Convergence^® Marketplace through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls, emails, direct mail, and fiber art events. Engage and schedule meetings to discuss being a vendor at Convergence^® and communicate results and decisions to the HGA Staff.
• Maintain accurate records of all prospecting activities including recruiting calls, presentations, successful partnerships, follow‐up activities, and contacts.

• Deliver a great experience to our vendors when working with our organization. You will represent our brand and serve as a liaison between vendors and HGA staff, assisting with introductions, support, logistics, and follow-up, as needed.
• Provide planning and logistical support for the Convergence^® Marketplace. Collaborating with HGA staff and external resources, as necessary, attend to the details of implementation including vendor load-in and load-out, overseeing the Demonstration Stage, and follow-up.
• Oversee Marketplace volunteers.
• Be onsite in the Marketplace during Convergence^® to attend to vendors’ needs.
• Regularly evaluate and improve upon the quality of the overall vendor experience.
• Provide exemplary and proactive customer service to all internal and external clients such as members, teachers, vendors, board members, etc. Answer questions and dispense information about Convergence^®. Manage and respond to complaints.
• This list of essential duties, tasks, and responsibilities is not all-inclusive.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Ability to be passionate about the HGA’s mission and to network, build alliances, and generate excitement in others, in person, over the phone, and at events.
• Excellent relationship management, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and oral).
• Attention to detail and persistent follow-up.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies and standards.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Flexibility to embrace change and unexpected opportunities.
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding of diversity.
• Proficiency in computer applications for word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.

• Physical demands during the conference include long days and standing for extended periods.

Qualifications:

• Must be an HGA member.
• Availability of schedule because chairing a conference can take a considerable amount of time. It is advised against committing to other volunteer activities since the success of the conference depends on the ongoing and regular management of the conference committee by the conference chair.
• Support for limited mail, telephone, and email needs.
• Ability to attend meetings via Zoom.
• This is a remote volunteer-from-home position, but travel is required. The volunteer will be expected to be on-site at the conference location for the duration of Convergence^® (approximately 7 days).
• Attendance at or previous involvement with Convergence^®
• Passion for HGA’s mission is a must!

Benefits:

• Hotel compensation provided at 50% of the cost of a double/double room at a blocked room rate at a Convergence^® Hotel for up to 7 nights during the conference.
• Complimentary Convergence^® 2026 and 2028 Value Package (CVP) includes:

• • Daily admission to the Marketplace, Demonstrations, Panels, and Art Exhibits
  • One ticket to the Fashion Show
  • One ticket to the Keynote Speaker
  • One ticket to the Thread Talks
  • HGA Tote Bag
  • Discounted Session Registration

• Volunteer Appreciation Reception
• 6 hours of complimentary classes/sessions at Convergence^® 2028
• Complimentary registration for virtual HGA’s 2025 and 2026 Spinning & Weaving Week Celebration

To Apply: Click here to Apply

Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Convergence^® Volunteer Coordinator

Type:    Volunteer, Remote                                

Principle HGA Contact: Executive Director                  

Duration: 18 Months

Description:

HGA’s biennial 5-day Convergence^® conference is an immersion in the fiber arts with seminars, workshops, vendors, exhibits, a fashion show, tours, and more. In this volunteer role, you will receive behind-the-scenes experience in producing the conference while working side-by-side with the HGA staff. As a volunteer, you will develop relationships with members, vendors, teachers, and fiber art enthusiasts.

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Proactively work with HGA staff to identify potential volunteers for Convergence^® through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls, emails, and fiber art events. Engage and schedule meetings to discuss being a volunteer at Convergence^® and communicate results and decisions to the HGA Staff.
• Interview, train, and place volunteers in appropriate positions. This includes assisting Planning Coordinators with building their committees; assigning Mentors and overseeing the Mentorship program; and staffing Art Exhibit Monitors, Art Exhibit Set-Up and Take-Down Assistants, Classroom Set-Up Assistants, Fashion Show Dressers, Marketplace Assistants, Registration/Information Desk Assistants, Ticket Takers, and any other areas where volunteers may be needed.
• Maintain accurate records of all prospecting activities including recruiting calls, presentations, successful partnerships, follow‐up activities, and contacts.

• Provide planning and logistical support for the Convergence^® volunteers. Collaborating with HGA staff and external resources, as necessary, attend to the details of implementation including volunteer check-in, recording volunteer hours, and follow-up.
• Be onsite during Convergence^® to oversee and attend to volunteers’ needs.
• Deliver a great experience to our volunteers when working with our organization. You will represent our brand and serve as a liaison between volunteers and HGA staff, assisting with introductions, support, logistics, and follow-up, as needed.

• Work with volunteers and HGA staff to address any concerns related to volunteers and volunteering at Convergence^®.
• Ensure that all volunteers receive appropriate recognition for their service.

• Provide exemplary and proactive customer service to all internal and external clients such as members, teachers, volunteers, board members, etc. Answer questions and dispense information about Convergence^®. Manage and respond to complaints.
• This list of essential duties, tasks, and responsibilities is not all-inclusive.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Ability to be passionate about the HGA’s mission and to network, build alliances, and generate excitement in others, in person, over the phone, and at events.
• Excellent relationship management, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and oral).
• Attention to detail and persistent follow-up.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies and standards.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Flexibility to embrace change and unexpected opportunities.
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding of diversity.
• Proficiency in computer applications for word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.

• Physical demands during the conference include long days.

Qualifications:

• Must be an HGA member.
• Availability of schedule because chairing a conference can take a considerable amount of time. It is advised against committing to other volunteer activities since the success of the conference depends on the ongoing and regular management of the conference committee by the conference chair.
• Support for limited mail, telephone, and email needs.
• Ability to attend meetings via Zoom.
• This is a remote volunteer-from-home position, but travel is required. The volunteer will be expected to be on-site at the conference location for the duration of Convergence^® (approximately 7 days).
• Attendance at or previous involvement with Convergence^®
• Passion for HGA’s mission is a must!

Benefits:

• Hotel compensation provided at 50% of the cost of a double/double room at a blocked room rate at a Convergence^® Hotel for up to 7 nights during the conference.
• Complimentary Convergence^® 2026 and 2028 Value Package (CVP) includes:

• • Daily admission to the Marketplace, Demonstrations, Panels, and Art Exhibits
  • One ticket to the Fashion Show
  • One ticket to the Keynote Speaker
  • One ticket to the Thread Talks
  • HGA Tote Bag
  • Discounted Session Registration

• Volunteer Appreciation Reception
• 6 hours of complimentary classes/sessions at Convergence^® 2028
• Complimentary registration for virtual HGA’s 2025 and 2026 Spinning & Weaving Week Celebration

To Apply: Click here to Apply

Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Grant Selection Review Panel

Type:    Volunteer, Remote                                

Principle HGA Contact: Program Coordinator                  

Duration: 1 Month (February-March)

Description:

HGA provides Grants for artists, student, and teachers to take or teach non-accredited classes. This allows HGA members to attend workshops, take classes at conferences and to offer classes to beginning weaving and spinning students. Grant applications are open to anyone who holds an active student, household, or professional artist membership.

Give back to the HGA through service and witness first-hand the impact donations have on our organization. HGA seeks volunteers to serve on the Grant Selection Review Panels. The role of the panel is to review all applications without bias and make award recipient recommendations based on the established grading criteria. Following a brief training, panelists will score applicant materials using our online system. Panelists will work independently.

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Attend a Zoom training to learn how to use Reviewr to review and score proposals.
• Independently read and carefully review every Grant proposal (anticipated quantity ranges between 10 and 30).
• Meet all deadlines.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Adhere to the guidelines as outlined in the Grant Review Process document.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• A broad knowledge of fiber arts.
• Ability to be passionate about the HGA’s mission.
• Attention to detail and persistent follow-up.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies and standards.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Qualifications:

• Must be an HGA member.
• Availability of schedule because reviewing proposals can take a considerable amount of time.
• Flexible schedule with the ability to attend a minimum of one Zoom meeting for instructions (determined by overall panel availability).
• Must have a computer (proposal review will take place on the web), internet access, and webcam.
• Passion for HGA’s mission is a must!

Benefits:

• Complimentary registration for virtual HGA’s 2025 Spinning & Weaving Week Celebration (must hold an HGA membership at the time of registration)

To Apply:
Application Form (first log into your HGA account): https://weavespindye.app.neoncrm.com/survey.jsp?surveyId=134&

Scholarship Selection Review Panel

Type:    Volunteer, Remote                                

Principle HGA Contact: Program Coordinator                  

Duration: 1 Month (March)

Description:

Each year, the HGA provides over $4,000 in Scholarships for students enrolled in accredited academic programs in the United States and Canada. The scholarships fund students furthering their education in the fiber arts, including textile research, history, and conservation. Rather than financial need, scholarship funds are awarded based on artistic and technical excellence and/or demonstrated excellence in research of textiles, textile history, and textile conservation. If you are a student, we hope you will consider applying. If you know of a student who may qualify, we hope you will forward them this email.

Give back to the HGA through service and witness first-hand the impact donations have on our organization. HGA seeks volunteers to serve on the Scholarship Selection Review Panels. The role of the panel is to review all applications without bias and make award recipient recommendations based on the established grading criteria. Following a brief training, panelists will score applicant materials using our online system. Panelists will work independently.

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Attend a Zoom training to learn how to use Reviewr to review and score proposals.
• Independently read and carefully review every Scholarship proposal (anticipated quantity ranges between 10 and 30).
• Meet all deadlines.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Adhere to the guidelines as outlined in the Grant Review Process document.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• A broad knowledge of fiber arts.
• Ability to be passionate about the HGA’s mission.
• Attention to detail and persistent follow-up.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies and standards.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Qualifications:

• Must be an HGA member.
• Availability of schedule because reviewing proposals can take a considerable amount of time.
• Flexible schedule with the ability to attend a minimum of one Zoom meeting for instructions (determined by overall panel availability).
• Must have a computer (proposal review will take place on the web), internet access, and webcam.
• Passion for HGA’s mission is a must!

Benefits:

• Complimentary registration for virtual HGA’s 2025 Spinning & Weaving Week Celebration (must hold an HGA membership at the time of registration)

To Apply:
Application Form (first log into your HGA account): https://weavespindye.app.neoncrm.com/survey.jsp?surveyId=134&