University of Oregon Housing is calling for hundreds of faculty, staff, students and community members to volunteer for Unpack the Quack, the UO’s two-day move-in experience Sept. 24 and 25 to get this year’s incoming class settled into the residence halls.
Employees can sign up for one or more shifts after checking with their supervisor to determine whether departmental operations will allow time away from work and whether it will qualify as paid or unpaid release time.
Three jobs are available:
- Volunteer movers assist incoming students and families by moving belongings out of their vehicles, onto carts and into their rooms. Movers may be students, faculty, staff or community members.
- Volunteer recyclers support UO Zero Waste program colleagues and help direct students and families to trash and recycling locations as well as breaking down boxes and recyclables. Recyclers may be students, faculty, staff or community members.
- Volunteer greeters assist students and families with wayfinding on campus. During their shift, they may be asked to hold signs, stand or sit. There are a limited number of greeters, who will be either faculty or staff members.
Registration and online training for Unpack the Quack is available on the housing website. All those who sign up for at least one shift will receive an Unpack the Quack T-shirt upon check-in to wear during their shift and a University Dining meal voucher at the end of their shift.
“University Housing is incredibly grateful for our colleagues, student volunteers and other UO community members who take part of their day each year to help our new Ducks settle into their new home,” said Bryson Beck, director of university housing promotions and student recruitment. “Signing up for a volunteer shift impacts the students’ experience more than you know. This act of service helps them and their families feel welcomed into the campus community and excited for the start of their journey at the UO.”
Employees are asked to consider alternative modes of transportation to campus on move-in days to allow space for families to unload. If driving is unavoidable, parking west of University Street is recommended.
Anyone having trouble signing up or with questions should call the University Housing office at 541-346-4277 or email housing@uoregon.edu.