Want to Join Our Volunteer Program

Would you like to get more involved at Brads this fall? And spend more time playing board games while you’re at it?

This fall, we’re launching a trial run of a volunteer program. We get so many people asking how they can contribute, and it’s always been important to us that Brads belongs to the community.

We think this program might be a great step in that direction. It’s a trial, so we’ll review how it went at the end of the season.

The program is planned to run from September 2nd to November 30th.

What is Brads Volunteer Program?

In brief, that is up to you!

Less briefly: it’s our way of inviting the community to take a more active role in shaping Brads together with us. We have lots of ideas about what this could mean, but we also need input on how to involve the community in the best way. We're inviting you to a meeting on August 16 at 10:00 for an open discussion about what this program can look like.

If you’d like to attend, or if you’re interested but unable to join the meeting, please fill out the short form below.

We’ve outlined a few potential roles further down. Please read through them before filling out the form, as they will likely answer many of your questions, but keep in mind that they are merely suggestions.

Game Librarian

Be the guide to great game nights

As a Game Librarian, you’ll be part of the core experience at Brads. You’ll help people find the right game, explain the rules, and keep the space welcoming and tidy. There are two main parts to the role:

Hosting:

You’ll support events like The Social Table, our regular Thursday night where anyone can join in and try new games. As a host, you’ll help guests choose a game, explain how it works, and sometimes even play with them. We may also invite you to join other events during the season, and you’re welcome to suggest events of your own.

Guru-ing:

This part is all about being available on the floor during opening hours. You might greet guests, explain how the café works, recommend games, answer questions, or help keep the library in order. It’s less structured than hosting, but just as important for creating a great atmosphere.

Task Master

Take on a project and make it happen

As a Task Master, you’ll take on a specific project and see it through. These tasks vary in size and type, and we’ll work with you to define the scope before you begin. If you’re building a portfolio or want experience for your CV, we’re happy to give credit and support in what ways we can.

You can choose from one of our suggested tasks, or propose something of your own. Here are a few examples of what we’re hoping to get done:

Some tasks we would love to achieve:

Head Librarian
Go through our game collection and catalogue any missing pieces or rules. Create replacement rule sheets (including translations where needed), and help us get games back into playable shape.
App Creator - We have a digital catalogue on our website, but we’d love to see it become a simple app. It might include features like play tracking, a random start-player selector, a dice roller, links to BGG, or rules in multiple languages.
Social Sensation - Help us create fun content for social media. That could mean filming TikToks, snapping reels, or showing off what makes Brads special: the games, the food, or just the vibes.
Handyperson - We’ve got wobbly chairs, tired walls, and big ideas. If you like tools or paintbrushes, this is your playground. You could help with repairs, touch-ups, murals, window painting, or small installations.

Important things to note

This is a trial. What does that mean?

It means the program isn’t set in stone. We’ll adapt as we go and adjust based on what works. If you take part, you’ll help shape how it develops and have a real influence on what the community side of Brads looks like.

We’ll hold an information meeting on August 16 at 10:00, where we’ll talk through ideas and listen to your thoughts. The goal is to create something that benefits everyone involved.

This is a volunteer position. What does that mean?

It’s unpaid, and you won’t be an employee or have employee responsibilities. But your time matters to us, and we want you to feel appreciated. We’re exploring ways to say thank you, such as offering free game time, meals during longer sessions, or invites to special events. These will be offered thoughtfully and in line with what’s reasonable for a volunteer role.

I have questions about one or both of the roles or the program as a whole!

Great. We can't wait to hear them. Fill out the interest form to register and let us know what you're wondering. We’ll go through everything at the meeting on August 16 at 10:00. If you’re still excited afterwards, you’ll have the chance to sign up officially.

So what is the next step?

There is a form we will need you to fill out to register your interest.

A meeting is set for 16th August at 10am for everyone who has expressed interest. We will answer questions, resolve any issues and expand on what is involved.