Storrowton Village in search of volunteers

Date: 8/13/2015

WEST SPRINGFIELD – A deadline is fast approaching for area residents considering volunteering at the Storrowton Village Museum during The Big E next month.

“Volunteering at Storrowton Village is a rewarding experience,” Dennis Picard, director, said. “Past volunteers have said that the interaction with the public and other Village volunteers and the friendships they make is the most memorable part of their commitment to the village.”

Betsy Wood of West Springfield, known as the village spinner, is one of more than 100 volunteers who encourage others to consider giving their time and talents to the village.

“If you are interested in meeting wonderful people from across the country and enjoy interacting with others, Storrowton is a wonderful place to volunteer,” she said.

Sean Bissaillon of Southwick, who is a substitute teacher in the Westfield Public Schools, echoed those sentiments.

“Volunteering gives me a sense of satisfaction since I am educating people without being in school,” he said.

Both Wood and Bissaillon provide tours around the village but also enjoy the time spent hearth cooking. Wood will be preparing vegetarian stews during The Big E, slated Sept. 18 to Oct. 4, while Bissaillon will be preparing vegetable dishes from produce from his own garden.

Picard noted that individuals ages 14 and older can volunteer as costumed guides in the classic 1800s village. Training sessions for prospective volunteers begin Aug. 19. To participate, volunteers must complete a Volunteer Interest Form and schedule an in-person interview with a Storrowton Village staff member. Selected volunteers must be available to attend three training sessions slated Aug. 19, Aug. 26 and Sept. 2, either at 1 p.m. or at 6 p.m. Each session lasts approximately two hours.

“Village volunteers dress in Early American-inspired apparel to give fairgoers a glimpse of New England’s past,” Picard said. “Interpreting the roles of 19th century New Englanders, volunteers will gain a wealth of knowledge about crafts, food and daily life of the era while participating in the excitement of The Big E.”

Costumes, parking and admission for volunteers on duty will be provided by The Big E as well as a 25 percent discount on items purchased at the gift shops operated by Storrowton Village. Also, volunteers will be able to attend the staff field trip, picnic and the annual Big E staff party.

For more information or to schedule an interview, call 205-5051 weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. prior to Aug. 19.

“The more volunteers we have the more fun it is,” Picard said.