Getting Involved

We are looking for responsible, passionate, dedicated people to help AOD grow and expand. If you share an interest in anime/animation/cartoons and are interested in helping out with a dynamic, exciting event, then read on!

Interested in getting your registration fee refunded? Volunteer to help! Helpers do the simple, but necessary tasks which make a convention happen. Whether it's checking badges, helping with setup, or assisting Staff members, being a Helper is a great way to see the convention and meet fellow fans! It's also a good way to see if you might potentially like to become a full-fledged Staff member in the future.

The only requirement to be a Helper is that you are a paid attendee of at least 15 years of age. If you are under 18, you must have a signed parental permission slip.

Here is how it works:

First, you'll need to register as a regular attendee. You can pre-register, or register at the con. Once you are at the convention, go to our Volunteer Office. Our friendly staff will get you set up as a Helper. You'll receive a special sticker for your badge and a time sheet to keep track of your hours. Do not lose it.

Third, hang out in the room. As Helpers are needed, you will be sent to various parts of the convention as requested. After your assignment is complete, have the person in charge of the event or room (usually the Coordinator) sign your time sheet. For every four hours you Help out, you get that day's registration fee refunded. Within 30 days after the end of the convention, a refund will be mailed to you.

Staff plan, organize, and run the many events and functions that make up AOD.

Aside from the benefits listed below, staffing positions are volunteer. We are a not-for-profit event and exist solely due to the efforts of those individuals who freely and generously give their time and effort so that this convention might flourish.

AOD will gladly serve as a reference on resumes for staff who have completed their service in good standing. In addition, returning staff will become eligible for free crash space and additional benefits in subsequent years.

If you are interested in becoming a staff member, send an email to staffaod2010@aodsf.org, tell us a bit about yourself, and if you have an idea which departments or events you are most interested in, tell us that as well. We'll forward your info to the person in charge of the respective department/event, and if there is a match, they will follow up with you directly.

• 18 years or older. We may make exceptions to this requirement if you are an exceptional candidate. Any Staffers under 18 must have a signed parental permission slip.
• Work at least 6-8 hours each day of the con. Setup time the day before the convention and clean up time after the con can be counted towards this limit as well.
• Previous customer service or volunteering/staffing experience is helpful, but not required.

• Free pass to enjoy the convention when you are not on duty.
• Discount on hotel room, if needed. Staff who serve multiple years in good standing may be eligible for free hotel room.
• Free parking at the venue (reimbursed after the convention)
• Priority access to convention events and freebies!

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.