Bootblack at SELF
Work the stands, learn from other bootblacks, mentor someone newer, and become part of a long tradition of skill, service, laughter, and Chocolate Cake.
Whether you want to build your skills, pass on what you know, lead a share session, participate in table time, or spend time working in the stands, SELF wants you involved. There are opportunities for experienced bootblacks and people who want to be mentored.
Spaces are limited. Bootblacks are registered through SELF’s volunteer system because bootblack labor is volunteer labor and an essential part of the event.
LearnReceive mentoring in the stands or during table time.
MentorPass on practical skills and support the next generation of bootblacks.
SharePropose a focused share session or help create collaborative learning.
ServeCare for leather while contributing to SELF and its titleholder tradition.
Program Commitment
Two hours: Be willing to mentor and/or participate in table time.
Three two-hour shifts: Work six hours in the stands. Additional shifts may be scheduled in the available increments.
Bootblack Participation Definitions
Mentor — Bootblack with at least 1 year of bootblacking experience (including stand time) preferred to provide guidance and support to less experienced bootblacks (mentees). Must be comfortable with answering mentee questions as well as sharing knowledge of various skills/products/processes. Must be willing to answer said questions even when the mentor is working with a client. Mentors working on dropped off items must be willing to teach and give more guidance and hands on support to mentees.
Mentee — Bootblack who is still learning basic skills or is unsure of their skills. Must be willing to ask a mentor for help if/when needed even if the mentor has a client in their stand (please be respectful to mentor and mentor’s client when need to seek help or guidance). Please note, mentees working directly with a client in their stand must have at least a working knowledge of bootblacking products and processes. Mentees working on dropped off items at the tables may have less knowledge of bootblacking processes but are willing to accept more hands-on assistance from mentors. Mentees should not attempt to provide bootblacking services on unfamiliar items using unfamiliar products/processes without the guidance of a mentor.
Table Time (formerly known as skill share sessions) — Mentors and mentees working together on dropped off items. While discussions regarding skills/products/processes are encouraged and often occur, there are no set or scheduled topics. Most often discussions or demonstrations occur because of the needs of the items that have been left in our care.
A tradition of giving: SELF bootblacks have long helped raise funds for incoming titleholders. Please consider donating a portion of your tips to the titleholder travel fund, helping titleholders travel, educate others, and represent SouthEast.
Volunteer registration: Bootblacks who meet the program criteria receive the discounted $70 registration package—the same compensation provided to SELF volunteers.
Apply to Bootblack at SELF
Use the volunteer application below and select the bootblack roles that match how you want to participate.
