Event Name: Same Same But Different Music & Arts Festival 2023
Date: Thursday, September 28th to Sunday, October 1st, 2023
Location: Lake Perris State Recreation Area, Lake Perris, California
Event Information
Are you passionate about creating inclusive and accessible environments for all? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to join Harm Reduction Circle's ADA Team and play a vital role in providing accommodation services at Same Same But Different (SSBD) 2023.
Harm Reduction Circle is excited to be invited back to Same Same But Different, Southern California's Premier Beachside Music Festival, for the 2nd year. Join us at the Lake Perris State Recreation Area from September 28th to October 1st, 2023, for an incredible weekend of music, art, and wellness. For more information about the event, visit the SSBD website by CLICKING HERE.
Important Note: The ADA Team is NOT the same as volunteering with our Harm Reduction Team. Each Team has different responsibilities, shift requirements, & benefits. Only complete this Google Form is you are interesting in volunteering with the ADA Team at SSBD. If you are looking for information on the Harm Reduction Team, we encourage you to Click Here to view the blog post on our main site.
Duties & Responsibilities of the ADA Team:
Before the event kicks off, our ADA Team will engage in essential preparation tasks. These include reviewing SSBD's current ADA policies and procedures, which can be found on the SSBD website by Clicking Here. HRC has already come to an understanding of the festival's obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and discuss how we will be implementing ADA accommodations during the event.
Wheelchair Accessibility:
In previous years, wheelchair accessibility has been a priority at SSBD. To enhance the experience for wheelchair users, last year SSBD provided an ADA golf cart for transportation, an AstroTurf and plywood walkway near the beach stage, and an ADA platform. Additionally, attendees with ADA wristbands could request stage managers for ADA transport when needed. Our ADA Team will play a crucial role in ensuring these accommodations run smoothly.
ADA Parking and Camping:
Our team will work on a case-by-case basis to reserve up-front parking spaces in the nearest parking lot for attendees requiring ADA parking. Proper placards and paperwork are required for these accommodations. Additionally, we will handle requests for ADA camping accommodations, offering assistance and reserving group campsites when necessary.
Accessible Shuttles and Transport:
During the event, our ADA Team will be in charge of shuttles and transportation services. We will provide a wheelchair-accessible golf cart, stationed at the Accessibility Services Hub, for on-site transportation needs. The shuttle hours will be organized in specific time frames to accommodate the varying influx of attendees.
Accessibility Services Hub:
Harm Reduction Circle will set up the Accessibility Services Hub, supplying a plain purple 10ftx10ft canopy (with 3 sidewalls) to serve as a central location for ADA services. The hub will be conveniently situated near the main HRC space, easily accessible to attendees.
Effective Communication Requests:
Our team will strive to meet effective communication requests, including American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, as needed. While ASL is currently not provided unless specifically requested, we are open to accommodating compelling arguments for its inclusion.
Additional Services:
We will facilitate additional services such as first aid assistance, special dietary needs support, and prescription medication management. HRC will ensure that guests with visual disabilities have access to large-format print/braille literature and guided tours upon request. While assisted listening device systems are not provided, we are here to address any other requests within our capabilities.
Volunteer Details:
To effectively handle ADA accommodations, Harm Reduction Circle will assemble a designated ADA Team comprising four volunteers. Prior ADA experience is highly desired, and at least one ADA Team member must be available at all times during the event. All ADA Team members will undergo training on ADA compliance, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide exceptional service.
Printed Materials/Promotion:
Harm Reduction Circle will create printed materials containing essential ADA information for distribution at SSBD. We are also excited to collaborate with marketing to promote SSBD's ADA accommodations, raising awareness among festival-goers.
Responding to ADA Requests:
To streamline communication, we will be provided with a list of department heads to address requests pre-event. Our ADA Team will actively participate in all-hands meetings for SSBD, ensuring smooth coordination with other teams.
Opportunity Details:
ADA Team Volunteer (5 Positions Available)
The ADA Team plays a vital role in ensuring a fully accessible and inclusive environment for all attendees at Same Same But Different. As an ADA Team volunteer, you will have the opportunity to make a direct impact by providing necessary accommodations and support to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have a positive and enjoyable experience throughout the event.
Responsibilities of Event Team:
Pre-Event:
First, we encourage each interested candidate to review The Official Same Same But Different ADA Guide located on the SSBD website to familiarize yourself with the event's accessibility guidelines.
Participate in HRC's in-house ADA compliance meeting to receive training on verifying eligibility, available ADA accommodations, and ADA compliance.
During Event:
Managing the Accessibility Services Hub during the festival and provide information and guidance to event attendees on available ADA services and accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility, ADA parking, and camping reservations.
Be available during all of your shifts to address ADA-related inquiries and requests from attendees.
Operate the hub, which will be located near the main HRC sanctuary space (hub will be set up several car-lengths away - within eye shot)
Typical Accessibility Services Hub Busy & Slow Hours:
11am to 6pm (busy)
6pm to midnight (slow)
midnight to 3am (busy)
3am to 11am (on call - as needed)
Busy Hours: between 1 & 3 ADA Team member will be available, depending on the night
Slow Hours: at least 1 or more ADA Team members will be available, or we'll designated someone as on call reachable via radio to respond to requests
volunteers at our nearby sanctuary space will keep an eye on the hub & greet any guests who approach the hub & will radio the on-call ADA Team member who will promptly return to the hub
On Call: During the less busy hours when there is less likely to be a need for immediate assistance, it is important to still have someone on call at all times in case a guest needs assistance. Even outside of slower hours, there is always someone on call who can be reached by radio for requests.
guests with ADA credentials are informed that at any time during the festival they are able to speak to anybody working SSBD who had a radio to reach out to the ADA Team
a radio will be available at the hub for guests to use to reach an ADA Team member
Issue ADA wristband credentials to guests needing accommodations onsite.
Verify handicap placard or license plate for ADA camping access.
Ensure the person to whom the placard or plate is issued is present in the vehicle and validate their legitimacy by checking identification.
Overseeing Service Animal Requests:
Verify service animals
Provide printed materials with service animal guidelines to those picking up credentials for their service animal.
Shuttles and Transportation Services:
Utilize the provided wheelchair-accessible golf cart to handle shuttles and transportation services throughout the event.
Typical Shuttle and Transportation Peak & Off-Peak Hours:
11am to 6pm (busy)
6pm to midnight (slow)
midnight to 3am (busy)
3am to 11am (on call - as needed)
Ensure volunteers for the ADA Team are capable and confident in safely transporting guests to various locations around the festival grounds.
While driving the gold cart is not required, anyone who does operate a golf cart must provide proof of a valid driver's license.
Sober and Safe Volunteering:
While participating in volunteer activities with Harm Reduction Circle, maintain sobriety and refrain from using, possessing, distributing, selling, or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
The legal use of prescribed drugs is permitted during volunteer service only if it does not impair a volunteer's ability to perform their duties.
Additional Expectations:
In addition to the core responsibilities mentioned above, we have certain expectations of all of of our volunteers, regardless of their role at SSBD:
Assess the overall safety of the event and identify areas of concern, such as overcrowding or potential drug use. Relay potential concerns to appropriate personnel (this could be HRC Team Supervisors, medical staff, security personnel, event organizers, or other emergency services)
Act as a visible harm reduction presence throughout the event to promote the safe use of drugs and alcohol.
Monitor and respond to potential emergencies as necessary and alert the appropriate personnel.
Be knowledgeable about local resources, such as emergency medical services and harm reduction organizations, to provide accurate information to event attendees.
Collaborate with the Team Supervisors and other members of the Harm Reduction Team to ensure a consistent message and approach to harm reduction at events.
Document any noteworthy interactions or incidents during the event and report back to the appropriate personnel.
Provide feedback on ways to improve harm reduction efforts at future events.
Attend all mandatory trainings and meetings to maintain a high level of competency and understanding of the harm reduction approach.
Minimum of 24 hours (6 x shifts, each 4 hours)
Maintain a positive and respectful environment, representing Harm Reduction Circle professionally.
Coordinate with other Team Supervisors, HRC leadership, and Event Team volunteers to align expectations, goals, and special considerations.
Facilitate as needed with crisis management situations, ensuring the proper implementation of HRC's policies and procedures.
(optional) Oversee incoming ADA requests and questions before the festival.
Communicate with SSBD department leads to find answers and develop accommodations for attendees.
(optional) Set up and manage the Accessibility Services Hub, complete with a plain purple 10ftx10ft canopy (with 3 sidewalls).
Benefits of Volunteering
By joining the Harm Reduction Team at Same Same But Different 2023, you'll enjoy a range of benefits that enhance your festival experience. As a valued volunteer, you will receive:
General Admission:
4-Day Pass ($427.03 value): Enjoy 4 nights of free walk-in tent camping, access to free drinking water throughout the weekend (bring a reusable bottle), and unlimited enjoyment of music, workshops, speakers, art installations, interactive zones, immersive environments, and live performances.
Wednesday Early Arrival Pass ($83.75 value):
Gain entry to the festival campsites on Wednesday, September 27th, allowing you to settle in early. Please note that gate hours are from 2:00-6:00pm without exceptions.
Car+Camping Pass Options:
Up-Front Campground Car-Camping Pass (Short Walk to Stages) ($170.93 value): Camp closer to the stages, enjoying a shorter walk to the music. Please be aware that parking your car at the campsite is not permitted, but you will have the convenience of parking at the adjacent up-front parking lot.
Car-Camping Campground Pass (Camp Near Stages) ($170.93 value): Camp a little farther away from the stages (between 5-10 minutes), but enjoy the convenience of campground showers and more spacious campsites. Additionally, you can park your car directly at your campsite in these areas.
Vehicle Parking Pass ($45.60 value): Park your vehicle at one of our onsite parking lots, which are within a decent walking distance (between 10-15 minutes by foot) from the festival. You'll have the opportunity to drop off your gear at your campsite upon arrival.
Meal Plans (TBD):
Details about meal plans/catering for Harm Reduction Circle volunteers are currently being finalized. More information will be provided soon.
Travel Stipend (TBD):
We are in the process of finalizing details on the possibility of travel stipends for Harm Reduction Circle volunteers. Stay tuned for more information.
Getting involved with the Harm Reduction Team offers you the opportunity to be part of a passionate community dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive festival environment. Beyond the benefits mentioned above, volunteering opens doors to meaningful connections, lasting friendships, and collaboration with like-minded individuals who share a common goal. The SSBD community provides a unique space for networking opportunities that can extend beyond the festival itself.
We have already confirmed our attendance and are working closely with the organizers of Same Same But Different to finalize last-minute details regarding the accommodations being provided to our Harm Reduction Team. Approved volunteers will receive email updates as information becomes available. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!
Training and Support
To ensure a successful volunteer experience at Same Same But Different 2023, we highly recommend visiting our volunteer hub called the Inner Circle and accessing the Training Page. This page offers a variety of online training modules designed to prepare you for your role. Currently available courses include Event Team training, Narcan 360, Test Your Drugs, and more upcoming courses. We encourage you to complete these modules to enhance your knowledge and readiness. To access the full benefits of volunteering with Harm Reduction Circle and join the Inner Circle, simply submit a General Volunteer Application and follow the instructions to create your account. Once you're a member, you'll have access to all the training materials, resources, and support available within the Inner Circle.
On the Training Page, you will also find a wealth of information in the form of printable PDFs. These resources cover a wide range of harm reduction topics, providing you with valuable insights and keeping you up-to-date on current issues. Additionally, we have compiled a comprehensive FAQ section where you can find answers to common questions related to harm reduction. By taking advantage of these resources, you'll feel confident and equipped to fulfill your role in promoting harm reduction and creating a safe environment for all festival attendees.
If you have any questions regarding training or need support as a member of the Harm Reduction Team at Same Same But Different 2023, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Team Supervisors at SSBD2023@harmreductioncircle.org. They will be more than happy to assist you.
Application Process
Step 1: If this is your first time volunteering with Harm Reduction Circle, you'll first need to submit a General Volunteer Application to become a member of the Inner Circle, which is our volunteer hub. If you are already a member of the Inner Circle, you don't need to complete this step. Our includes a pre-screening questionnaire, and will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete.
Step 2: Immediately after submitting an application you can add your name Join the Waitlist for the Harm Reduction Team at SSBD. You do not need to wait for a response before adding yourself to the waitlist. If you do not submit an application, your name will be removed from the waitlist unless you are currently a member of the Inner Circle. ADA TEAM: Under the question "Which Position(s) Are You Interested In" make sure that you select "ADA Team"
Deadline: The deadline to join the waitlist is Thursday, August 31st, 2023. Make sure to secure your spot before this date to be considered for volunteering at Same Same But Different 2023.
Step 3: Stay informed by reviewing the full details about our attendance at Same Same But Different 2023. Check out our blog post titled Upcoming Event: Same Same But Different Music & Arts Festival 2023 for the most up-to-date information. This is where you'll find the most up-to-date information on what to expect if you're considering volunteering with us at SSBD.
What Can I Expect if You Are Approved
We will carefully review all submissions and notify selected individuals no later than Friday, September 1st, 2023. If you are chosen, you will receive an onboarding email and a text message reminder. Our evaluation process takes various factors into consideration, including experience, enthusiasm, passion, commitment, and tenacity. While experience is highly desired, we believe that these other qualities are equally important in creating a positive and inclusive experience at SSBD.
After submitting your application and joining the waitlist for the Harm Reduction Team at SSBD 2023, our team will carefully consider all applicants. We will reach out to those selected no later than Friday, September 1st, 2023. If selected, you'll receive an onboarding email and text message reminder. Your onboarding email will provide you with detailed instructions and ticketing information.
If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding your application, please feel free to reach out to the Team Supervisors for Same Same But Different 2023 by emailing SSBD2023@harmreductioncircle.org. We are here to assist you every step of the way.
Don't Wait to Apply! Spots Will Fill Up Fast for SSBD!
Applications are open to the community and we encourge anyone to apply! Volunteering with the Harm Reduction Team at SSBD is a transformative experience that allows you to make a real impact in creating a safe and inclusive environment for festival-goers. By joining our team, you become an essential part of our mission to reduce harm, promote well-being, and empower individuals to make informed choices. Your dedication and commitment will directly support the safety and well-being of festival attendees, fostering a culture of care, acceptance, and education.
We invite you to take the next step and apply to join the Harm Reduction Team at SSBD. By becoming a volunteer, you become part of a passionate community committed to creating a positive and transformative festival experience for all. Together, we can make a lasting impact and help shape a culture of harm reduction and well-being.
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of something meaningful. Visit our website, read the full details about the application process, and submit a General Volunteer Application to join Harm Reduction Circle's Inner Circle volunteer hub. It only takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete a General Volunteer Application, which also includes a pre-screening questionnaire. This is an important step in becoming part of our dedicated volunteer community. You can add your name Join the Waitlist for the Harm Reduction Team at SSBD immediately after submitting your application - you do not have to wait for a response! If you do not submit an application, your name will be removed from the waitlist unless you are currently a member of the Inner Circle. Make sure to secure your spot before the waitlist deadline on Thursday, August 31st, 2023.
For questions regarding the Harm Reduction Team at Same Same But Different 2023, please reach out to Team Supervisors at SSBD2023@harmreductioncircle.org.
Event Team FAQ
CLICK HERE for the complete list of frequently asked questions about volunteering for Harm Reduction Circle.
Do Volunteers Recieve Free Tickets to Events?
Absolutely! Volunteers are never asked to pay for tickets when they are volunteering with Harm Reduction Circle.
What Are The Requirements to Volunteer with HRC at SSBD?
If this is your first time volunteering with Harm Reduction Circle, you'll first need to submit a General Volunteer Application to become a member of the Inner Circle, which is our volunteer hub. If you are already a member of the Inner Circle, you don't need to complete this step.
Add your name to the waitlist for Same Same But Different 2023 immediately after submitting an application. Join the Waitlist for the Harm Reduction Team at SSBD. If you do not submit an application, your name will be removed from the waitlist unless you are currently a member of the Inner Circle. The deadline to join the waitlist is Thursday, August 31st, 2023. Make sure to secure your spot before this date to be considered for volunteering at Same Same But Different 2023.
You must be able to attend at least 1 of our Mandatory On-Site Training Sessions. If you cannot attend either of the on-site training sessions, unfortunately you cannot volunteer on the Harm Reduction Team at SSBD 2023.
Option A: First Day (Thurs, Sept 28th) 4:00-5:30pm
Option B: Second Day (Fri, Sept 29th) 6:00-7:30pm
How Many Hours/Shifts Are Required to Receive a Free Ticket to SSBD?
For SSBD, we require volunteers on our event team to take on a minimum of 16 hours (4 x shifts, each 4 hours). The number of hours/shifts we require our volunteers to work varies depending on a variety of factors.
Are There Paid Positions Available?
There are currently no paid positions available at this time.
Can I Volunteer With a Friend?
We always encourage volunteers to recruit their friends! However, when friends volunteer together we ask that no two volunteers schedule themselves their shifts more than 50% of the time. This is because although available shifts may be taken, this doesn’t fill available time slots.
Are Volunteers Required to Pay Deposits for Tickets?? If so, How Much?
In very rare circumstances we may implement a deposit on volunteer tickets. We haven’t done this to date, but it’s in our Event Team Guidebook our policy states “Certain events may require an upfront ticket deposit to secure a complimentary ticket. This is typically for larger events, highly sought-after events, new volunteers, or volunteers with a history of commitment issues. When an upfront ticket deposit is requested volunteers must pay the deposit before their ticket request is confirmed." At this time, there is no deposit required for SSBD.
What Are the Gate Hours fro SSBD?
If you arrive outside gate hours, the box office will be closed and you will not be able to enter the festival.
Wednesday: 11am - 3pm
Thursday (camping arrival day): 11am - 3pm
Friday: 10am - 12am
Saturday: 10am - 12am
Sunday: 10am - 9pm
Monday: Must Exit the Property by 3pm
Are Kids Allowed at SSBD?
All ages, under 18 requires guardian. Under 6 years old free.
CLICK HERE for the complete list of frequently asked questions about volunteering for Harm Reduction Circle.
Volunteer Information
Team Supervisor 1: Annastasia Rose Beal +1 (949) 659-8180 / Annastasia@HarmReductionCircle.org
Team Supervisor 2: (TBD)
Team Supervisor 3: (TBD)
Equipment Supervisor: (TBD)
Volunteer Activity Schedule
Mandatory On-Site Training (Required to Attend Either A or B):
Option A: First Day (Thurs, Sept 28th) 4:00-5:30pm
Option B: Second Day (Fri, Sept 29th) 6:00-7:30pm
Inner Circle Huddle (Only Required if On-Site):
First Day: (Thurs, Sept 28th) 4:45-5:15pm
Second Day: (Fri, Sept 29th) 4:45-5:15pm
Third Day: (Sat, Sept 30th) 4:45-5:15pm
Fourth Day: (Sun, Oct 1st) 4:45-5:15pm
SSBD Production Staff/Crew Meetings:
Overdose Response Training Led by HRC: (Wed, Sept 27th) (TBD)
Security/Medical Meeting: (Thurs, Sept 28th) (TBD)
Fun Stuff for Volunteers:
Early Arrivals Surprise: (Wed, Sept 27th) 6:30-7:00pm
Potluck Dinner: (Fri, Sept 29th) 5:30-6:30pm
Pancake Breakfast: (Sun, Oct 1st) 10:00-11:00am
Take-Home Leftover Supplies: (Mon, Sept 28th) 4:45-5:15pm
HRC Group Photo: (TBD)
Community Activities:
(TBD): (Thurs, Sept 28th) 5:30pm
(TBD): (Fri, Sept 29th) 5:30pm
(TBD) (Sat, Sept 30th) 5:30pm
(TBD): (Sun, Oct 1st) 5:30pm
ADA Schedule (Subject to Change):
Thursday, September 28
11am-6pm: 2 volunteers on-call for shuttle and transportation services
6pm-midnight: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
Midnight-3am: 2 volunteers on-call for shuttle and transportation services
3am-7am: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
7am-11am: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
Friday, September 29
11am-6pm: 2 volunteers on-call for shuttle and transportation services
6pm-midnight: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
Midnight-3am: 2 volunteers on-call for shuttle and transportation services
3am-7am: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
7am-11am: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
Saturday, September 30
11am-6pm: 2 volunteers on-call for shuttle and transportation services
6pm-midnight: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
Midnight-3am: 2 volunteers on-call for shuttle and transportation services
3am-7am: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
7am-11am: 1 volunteer at the Accessibility Services Hub
11am-6pm: 2 volunteers at the Accessibility Services Hub
6pm-midnight: 1 volunteer at the Accessibility Services Hub
Midnight-3am: 2 volunteers at the Accessibility Services Hub
Sunday, October 1
3am-7am: 1 volunteer at the Accessibility Services Hub
7am-11am: 2 volunteers at the Accessibility Services Hub
11am-6pm: 2 volunteers at the Accessibility Services Hub
6pm-midnight: 1 volunteer at the Accessibility Services Hub
Midnight-3am: 2 volunteers at the Accessibility Services Hub
Monday, October 2
3am-7am: 1 volunteer at the Accessibility Services Hub
7am-11am: 2 volunteers at the Accessibility Services Hub
11am-2pm: 1 volunteer on-call for shuttle and transportation services
Questions?
For questions regarding the Harm Reduction Team at Same Same But Different 2023, please reach out to Team Supervisors at SSBD2023@harmreductioncircle.org.
CLICK HERE to review the most up-to-date information about our attendance at Same Same But Different 2023 on the Harm Reduction Team blog.