Volunteers

What is The Big Event?

• The Big Event at Virginia Tech is a student-run community engagement effort that has grown into the 2nd largest event of its kind in the nation over the past 21 years. Every spring, thousands of students, faculty, and staff come together to complete hundreds of service projects throughout Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and the New River Valley.
• Projects are completed regardless of need or socioeconomic status. The Big Event’s goal is to simply say, “Thank you.” Seeded in our university’s motto of Ut Prosim (That I may serve), students and community members come together for a truly unparalleled experience.

How can I sign up?

• Volunteer registration opens in the Spring, so be sure to check back for the registration form next semester!

I want to start a team and be the team captain. What should I do?

• Fill out the volunteer registration form and when asked if you are the team captain, select yes. Send the form out to the rest of your team and be sure they select no.

Will our team be assigned a project, or will we have to search for our own project to complete?

• We will assign your team to a project. All assigned projects have been checked and approved by our staff. You will find out your assigned project on the day-of The Big Event during check-in on the Drillfield.

I am not a student at Virginia Tech. Can I still participate?

• Please email volunteertbe@vt.edu.

What is the minimum and maximum members I can have on my team?

• A team must have a minimum of 2 members. There is no maximum. However, we may split your group into two or more projects depending on the size. Anyone who has signed up individually will be placed into a team when registration closes.

I do not know anyone else participating in the event. Can I sign up as an individual?

• Yes, all individuals will be placed into teams and given projects to complete. The Big Event is a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends, so please don’t hesitate to sign up individually!

I signed up as a team leader. Now what?

• While registration is open, we encourage your friends or members of your organization to sign up on your team. Each team captain needs to attend one team captain’s meeting. Team captain meetings are held the week of The Big Event. You are responsible for making sure that all team members are present and ready to volunteer on the day of!

My friend made a team that I want to join. I know the team’s name. What should I do?

• Fill out the volunteer registration form once opened on February 1, 2025. If your friend signed up with a registered student organization or Fraternity/Sorority, then find and select your team from the drop down provided. Otherwise, ask your friend for the team name they registered under and type that name in the created team’s name.

What day does volunteer registration close?

• To be determined for 2025.

What do most of the projects consist of?

• Most are yard work such as raking, shoveling, mulching, etc. No power tools or ladders over one story will be used, and all our projects are pre-checked to ensure safety for all volunteers. Some could be inside, such as cleaning, window washing, etc. Please dress appropriately.

How long do I work for at a project site?

• You will work for a maximum of 4 hours. Typically, you will arrive at the work site around 11 AM and thus work until 3 PM at the latest. The homeowners are aware that you are not supposed to work longer than 4 hours. Once the job is completed, you can return your tools and you’re done!

What if I have an allergy or need special accommodation? Can I still participate?

• Yes! When you register as a volunteer, it will ask if you need any special accommodations. If you are allergic to any pets or have a disability, be sure to list it there. We will then match your team to a suitable project.

Does The Big Event provide transportation from the drill field to my project site?

• Yes, if your team needs a ride, we can drive you to and from your project. We do ask that groups provide their own transportation if they are able as this will reduce the amount of time groups wait for a ride from The Big Event.

Do I need to bring tools or anything to The Big Event?

• All tools will be provided based on what the homeowner has requested. Remember that you are not allowed to use ANY power tools or ladders over one story while at your project. This includes but is not limited to lawn mowers, weed whackers, drills, leaf blowers, vacuums, and so forth. We encourage you to bring a water bottle and a snack.

Is there a rain date for the event?

Unfortunately, if there is bad weather at the discretion of The Big Event Executive Committee and the university the event will be cancelled and not be made up.

Can I have a volunteer verification letter signed for my participation in The Big Event?

Yes, after The Big Event has concluded, email
• directortbe@vt.edu and we’ll get you covered.

Who should I contact if I have questions?

• Direct all volunteer related questions to volunteertbe@vt.edu. Direct all general questions to commstbe@vt.edu. Most inquiries will be handled within 24 hours. Please be patient, we are all students.

How can I become a part of the Big Event Committee next year?

• Application information can be found on GobblerConnect. Contact stafftbe@vt.edu with any questions or concerns.