Volunteers

Tyson Shields (left) and Samuel Ingledue (right), members of Delta Phi Fraternity go to work at planting a fairy garden during the Big Event. May 4, 2024. Photo by Kirk Rangel for University Communication.

Fall 2026 event

Saturday,
October 24, 2026

11 AM to 3 PM

Volunteers

Both individuals and groups are invited to participate.

  • General Volunteer Sign-up is open until 11:59 p.m. October 11, 2026.
  • You will be notified of your project assignment by October 18, 2026.


Questions? Send a message to bigevent@unl.edu or call 402–472–2652.

1. Choose a sign-up option

Groups

For RSOs, sororities, fraternities, learning communities, and university departments/units wanting to do projects together.  

Only one representative (main contact) of the group should complete this registration; all other group members will use their group's TBE Join Code to register.

Important details you need to provide:

  • name and contact info for the group's main representative.
  • # of your group's members who will volunteer on Oct 24.
  • a unique Join Code to identify your group


This application closes at  11:59 p.m. October 11, 2026.

Sign up now

Individuals

For students, staff, and faculty without a group.

Individuals will be grouped into small teams for projects.


This application closes at  5 p.m. October 11, 2026.

Sign up now

TBE Join Code

For members of a group/organization who received a Join Code from their representative.


This application closes at 5 p.m. October 16, 2026.

Sign up with Join Code

2. Next steps, after signing up

Groups: Main Representative/Contact

  1. Check your inbox for a copy of your submission.
  2. Share the Join Code with group members and actively recruit them to complete their own sign-up.
    1. You are responsible for fulfilling the # of volunteers that was pledged when you signed up.
  3. Keep an eye on your inbox.  Periodically, you will receive emails outlining the progress of the groups Join Code sign-ups.
  4. Join the GroupMe for day-of announcements.
  5.  On or after October 18, you will receive an email with your project assignment and notes for your group.

Individuals

  1. Check your inbox for a copy of your submission.
  2. On or after October 18, you will receive an email with your project assignment and notes for your group.

TBE Join Code signees

  1. Check your inbox for a copy of your submission.
  2. Inform your group's main representative that you are signed up. Stay in contact with that individual - they will receive all instructions for the group's projects.

3. Day-of details for The Big Event

 

Information coming soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a Group Leader (main contact)?

Group Leader is the primary contact person for a group/organization to The Big Event. They are responsible for recruiting their group's volunteers for the Big Event; communicating expectations; and ensuring their group arrives to their volunteer site. 

What should I wear?

Wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, as many jobs involve outdoor work. Volunteers are encouraged to wear their The Big Event t-shirt that will be provided closer to the event.

Do I need to bring my own tools?

No. 

Tools are either provided by the job site or checked out to you during morning registration. The Big Event will trade tools for your NCard on the day of the event. We will return your NCard when you return the tools at the end of the day.

Volunteers are prohibited from using power tools and ladders.

What happens if there is an issue at my project site?

Each site is assigned an Operations Staff (Ops Staff) member. They act as the liaison between your site and the Executive Team. If an issue arises that you or your Group Leader cannot resolve, your Ops Staff member will assist you.

What should I expect on the day of the event?

The Big Event will send details as we get closer to the event. Plan to arrive to the Union Green Space before heading to your assigned job site to share a meal with fellow volunteers, check out tools, and receive final instructions.

What kind of work will I be doing?

Volunteers perform a variety of tasks, including yard work, window washing, and general household organization. All tasks are non-professional and designed to be completed by student volunteers.

Where do the volunteer projects take place?

We serve both local non-profit organizations and private residences across Lincoln. You will be notified of your specific job site locations approximately in early April.

Does the Big Event provide transportation to my project site?

No. 

You will need to coordinate with your group to carpool to your assigned site.