VOLUNTEER
As we prepare to open in Charleston, we are gathering the people who will welcome every visitor to this place and tell its story with care. That is the work of our volunteers.
Become a steward of sacred ground.
WHY VOLUNTEERS MATTER HERE
The daily face of a place people will never forget.
Every day, people will come to this memorial — from down the street and from around the world. Some will come to learn. Some will come to grieve. All of them will be met by someone.
With a small staff, our volunteers are the heart of this memorial. They welcome each visitor, answer questions about the memorial and the church, offer directions to nearby restaurants and sights, and hold a steady, caring presence through busy afternoons and quiet mornings alike.
You don’t need a background in history. You need an open heart, a little time, and a willingness to help others find meaning here. We will teach you the rest.
WAYS TO SERVE
Three ways to give your time.
Each role comes with full training and the support of our team. Choose the one that fits you best — or ask us where you’re needed most.
Visitor Services
Be the welcoming presence on the grounds. Greet visitors, answer questions about the memorial and the church, give directions to parking, restaurants, and Charleston attractions, and keep the visitor experience calm and dignified.
Commitment: One 4-hour daytime shift a week • 3 months
Guided Tour Docent
Tell the story. Lead our guided tours and share the history of Mother Emanuel and the Emanuel Nine with accuracy, dignity, and sensitivity. Our most in-depth role, with full training, shadowing, and ongoing support.
Commitment: Weekly shifts • 6-month term • full training
Event Services
Help our commemorations and special programs run beautifully. Assist with setup, check-in, wayfinding, and hospitality at events — including evenings, and weekends. Serve when you’re able.
Commitment: Event based • flexible
WHAT WE ASK
A meaningful commitment, made clearly.
This is a place of deep significance, and the role carries real responsibility. We ask every volunteer to meet a few expectations so that every visitor is met with care.
Age
18 or older
Time
A regular shift, or event-based service for our Event team
Heart
Warmth, patience, and steady composure with all visitors
Screening
A background check and, for front-line roles, sex offender registry check
Training
Completion of orientation and role-specific training before serving
HOW TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER
Five steps to serving here.
Apply
Submit the short application. Tell us where you’d like to serve.
Meet us
Join an information session and an informal interview to find your fit.
Get cleared
Complete a background check for front-line roles.
Train
Attend orientation and role-specific training, with shadowing for docents.
Serve
Assist our visitors and staff.
GOOD TO KNOW
Questions people ask us.
Do I need to know the history already?
No. If you’re willing to learn, we provide all the training you’ll need — including for our docents.
How much time is required?
Most roles ask for one 4-hour shift a week. Event Services is flexible and event-based, so you can serve when you’re available.
When are volunteers needed?
Primarily during daytime hours, when the memorial is open, plus some evenings for special programs and commemorations.
Is there a minimum age?
Volunteers are 18 or older. We plan to open a supervised pathway for students ages 16–17 in the future.
This is where survival becomes sacred ground.
And it will take all of us to tend it. Start your application today, or reach out with any questions.
Questions? Email