Detroit Sound Conservancy is a community-based archive that tells Detroit’s story through the experiences of its musical people. Alarmed by the collective loss of creative voices, musical recordings, and cultural spaces, DSC was formed with the mission of preserving and educating the public on our city’s musical heritage.
As a community-based nonprofit archive, we depend on the time and dedication of our patrons and hardworking volunteers to keep the legacy alive. We could not do what we do without your help!
Overview of Volunteering with DSC:
We offer both remote and in-person volunteer opportunities, spanning a range of sectors within the organization, from fundraising and outreach to archiving and operations. No prior archival experience is necessary to volunteer — bring whatever skills you have, and we will find a use for them at DSC!
Current Volunteer Needs:
- Transcribing Oral Histories
Many of the artifacts DSC has acquired only exist within our collection, being passed down over time with little documentation. By transcribing our oral history pieces, you can help memorialize these tales for the digital age and make our archive more widely accessible. Transcribing oral histories can be done remotely, and can be done by anyone!
- Work In the Archive
As a collections and archives volunteer, you will work directly with Detroit music artifacts, history, and legacy. Volunteering archivists can expect to help manage our collections and evaluate newly donated pieces. This is a hands-on opportunity that is open to both trained archivists and librarians, as well as those who are interested in learning.
- Communications Volunteering
Clearly articulating and sharing our mission, programs, and collections is vital to our success. As a communications and social media volunteer, you can take part in writing that story! Our social media platforms reach thousands of folks all over the world — in this role, you’ll help us share Detroit’s musical history in a way that is engaging and relevant.
How to Get Involved:
If you are interested in lending a helping hand to DSC, please fill out the Volunteer Intake Form below. A member of our team will be in touch with volunteer opportunities for you soon!