Consistent with the strategic framework of AORE, volunteers and staff are considered to be partners in implementing the organization's mission and programs. Volunteers and staff have equal and complimentary roles to play. Volunteers are key to AORE's success and its advancement of it's mission of empowering leaders to connect people to the outdoors through recreation and education experience.
Volunteering can be a way to contribue and expand your skills, knowledge, and networks. Volunteering allows you to make a lasting and meaningful impact. Volunteers:
Volunteerism comes in different shapes and sizes. AORE has some opportunities that can be accomplished through individuals, and other efforts that require group work. Some opportunities include the need to engage thought leaders who are not practicing professionals but who bring unique expertise and perspective to advance our mission.
Board of Directors (BOD)
The Board serves at the pleasure of the AORE members, and are elected by eligible voting members. Members of the Board have a legal duty to be loyal and to act responsibly and in the best interest of the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education. In addition, the Board does fundraising, sets the strategic direction and creates policy. [LEARN MORE]
Board Committees provide advice and recommendations to the AORE Board of Directors on matters relating to Development, Financial Advisory, Governance, Membership and Nominating qualified candidates for the Board of Directors. These committees are chaired by a current board member and report to the AORE Chair.
Staff-Led Committees work toward providing the AORE membership with important opportunities, resources, and information relevant to the field of outdoor recreation and education. Committees communicate to and with the membership addressing common issues, providing solutions to problems and building community. Committees have standing and annual responsibilities that support the association's Strategic Framework. AORE committees are chaired by AORE volunteers and administered by AORE staff. [LEARN MORE]
AORE's Staff-Led Committees include Access and Permitting; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Environmental Stewardship; Professional Development; Recognition; and Research and Publications.
Volunteer opportunities include: Committee Chair/Co-Chair and Committee Member.
Please click the links above for position descriptions for committee volunteer opportunities.
Conference Action Teams
Interested volunteers from all over the country join forces to bring the AORE Annual Conference together each year. We are always looking for eager and passionate individuals who want to have a role in the largest event AORE offers each year. From Auctions, Awards, Career Development, Education and Research to Marketing, Socials and Sustainability - we have a place for you! Volunteer opportunities include: Conference Chair, Action Team Lead, Action Team Member and Onsite/Virtual Volunteers. [LEARN MORE]
Summit Volunteer Leadership Team
These volunteer leaders assist the National Office with curating volunteers and facilitating small group training of Summit volunteers, promotion of the event, and encouraging participating in the AORE Inclusive Outdoor Recreation Summit. [LEARN MORE]
Task Force
Task forces are working groups composed of current association members in good standing or designated individuals committed to a specific, time-bound task assigned by the board of directors. Task force members are selected on the demonstrated skills and expertise as defined in the specific task force position description.
JOREL
The JOREL Advisory Board is comprised of members representing the AORE, the Wilderness Education Association (WEA), and the Western Kentucky Research Foundation. The purpose of this board is advisory in nature and will provide guidance and support to the editor-in-chief for the oversight of the journal. The group makes leadership decisions pertaining to the selection and tenure of the editor(s). [LEARN MORE]
AORE Equity Challenge Leadership Team
These volunteer leaders assist the National Office with planning, facilitating and encouraging participating in the AORE Equity Challenge. [LEARN MORE]
OPPORTUNITY | MEMBERS | REQUIREMENTS | EXPERIENCE |
Board of Directors | 9-11 (adjusts annually) | Membership required for duration of term | Varies; desired skills are identified to support the strategic framework |
Board Committee | 5-10 members | Membership required *You do not need to serve on the Board to serve on a Board Committee | Varies; committees strive to be diverse in membership makeup |
Staff-Led Committee | 5-25 members | Membership required | Varies; committees strive to be diverse in membership makeup |
Conference Action Team | 2-10 members | Membership required | Varies; action teams strive to be diverse in membership makeup |
Task Force | 5-7 members/force | Both members and non-members are eligible | Varies; specific skills or perspectives defined in description |
Program Lead | 2-3 per Program | Membership required | Varies; program leadership strives to be diverse in membership makeup |
The following positions are currently vacant for 2022. If you are interested or have any questions, please reach out to nationaloffice@aore.org
Want to learn more?
Watch our 15 minute onboarding video!
If you are interested in serving AORE through participation with this focus group, please submit your information through this form.
Ready to apply to volunteer? Use the form below to start the process!