Gopher applications are OPEN - scroll down and click 'Apply' to open the form
What is a gopher?
A volunteer at a convention essential to the running of the event - not to be confused with the adorable burrowing rodent found in North and Central America. Gophers are the unsung heroes of the convention world.
HotaruCon is a fan-run event: the committee are all volunteers, and they work with the gopher team to ensure that everything runs smoothly over the event weekend. Gophering is for anyone who wants to create an amazing experience for their fellow attendees by volunteering some time over the weekend. There is no strict minimum time requirement, you can choose what you sign up to help with, and there are some gopher perks on top of the success you'll feel when you're helping out.
What does gophering involve? Is there anything I have to do?
Gopher work is varied and ranges from very visible roles like checking attendee badges to behind-the-scenes jobs like helping us prepare the con bags for registration. Some tasks are quick but have multiple steps, like helping panellists prepare for their panels - you can find a guide for each task in the Gopher Handbook which will be shared before the event. You pick your tasks using the sign-up board in the gopher office, where our Head Gopher can answer any questions. You must read and agree to follow the Gopher Code Of Conduct. Please attend the gopher briefings where you can, as this is where you will meet our Head Gopher and be introduced to the rest of the team. We also have a WhatsApp group which helps co-ordinate tasks over the weekend, so the sign-up form will ask for your phone number.
Who volunteers to be a gopher?
The only thing all gophers have in common is that they are attending HotaruCon! Gophering is a great way to meet people and enjoy a different side of the convention for a couple of hours each day. Perhaps you like the idea of helping out your fellow attendees or have some unique skills that will assist in bringing everything together? Maybe you’re interested in joining the committee as a deputy officer, or thinking about starting an event of your own and want to see how HotaruCon comes together. Whatever your reason for signing up, it's always rewarding to be part of the smooth running of the event.
Do I get any cool gopher rewards?
We appreciate all of the time and energy our volunteers give and in return (subject to availability) we offer the following perks:
- A reserved ticket for the next HotaruCon, with a variable discount based on how many gopher hours you worked. Unique booking links will be sent out after the event which will let you sign up for a discounted registration. You can use the link to sign up even if tickets are otherwise sold out, but your space will only be reserved for you until 3 months before the event.
- Discounted (or maybe even free) HotaruCon merchandise such as t-shirts.
- A gopher badge with special artwork. This lets you into the gopher office (where we keep the gopher snacks) and is an exclusive souvenir to add to your conbadge collection.
- We have a gopher party on Sunday evening, with pizza and the gopher grab bag of "Miscellaneous Gifts". There is a form question about dietary restrictions to help us cater for everyone.
- Access to the HotaruCon Discord Gopher Channel which is open all year.
Where do I sign up?
Right here! When applications are open, use the 'Apply' button to open the form below. You will be contacted about your gopher application closer to the event.