A huge thank you to the more than 1,000 volunteers who signed up to help make this year’s Open House New York Weekend a reality!
Volunteers are crucial to the success of OHNY Weekend. Each year, hundreds of dedicated New Yorkers volunteer to welcome, greet, and guide tens of thousands of OHNY Weekend participants at notable locations across the city.
By helping to open buildings and experiences to the public, OHNY Volunteers promote a deeper understanding of how the city works, encourage civic participation, and become part of a community of curious New Yorkers and urbanists.
Questions? Reach out to volunteer manager Alba Cruz at [email protected].
Volunteer Resources
OHNY Volunteer Spotlights
What’s a hidden gem you’ve found through OHNY Weekend?
“The Firehouse on Jay Street, Brooklyn.”
– Fiona Torres, Volunteer
How would you describe OHNY Weekend?
“The ultimate opportunity to learn and experience what you mistakenly thought you already knew about NYC.”
– Eric Aglow, Volunteer
What’s your favorite part of volunteering for OHNY Weekend?
“The incredibly diverse group of people you meet.”
– Alba Cruz, Volunteer Manager
What do Volunteers do?
OHNY Weekend Volunteers serve as the public face of OHNY by greeting guests, assisting with check-in, managing lines, and providing information about OHNY Weekend. In 2021, Volunteers also supported the health and safety of OHNY Weekend participants by helping to enforce our Covid-19 policies. Volunteer shifts usually last about four hours and take place at one location, and Volunteers have the option to help out on one or both days of OHNY Weekend.
If you are unable to volunteer in person, OHNY also has opportunities for volunteer assistance with virtual programming, as this content has become an important part of the Weekend since 2020. These Volunteers may assist with recording head counts and view counts for virtual programs, or troubleshooting basic technology issues that come up.
Why should I volunteer?
Volunteering is a great opportunity to explore and learn about a new neighborhood or place in your city, or share your love of a familiar place with visitors. We do our best to accommodate requests for volunteer assignments in specific neighborhoods, or requests to work with a friend or partner.
Weekend Volunteers receive a limited-edition OHNY Weekend t-shirt and badge allowing front-of-the-line access at certain experiences (and our immense gratitude!).
OHNY Volunteers also receive complimentary or discounted admission to OHNY’s programs, as well as access to exclusive Volunteers-only events.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
