Illuminate Volunteers

Join the Illuminate Play Volunteer Team!

Are you passionate about Play in the Early Years? Want to gain valuable experience, network with professionals, and contribute to an exciting event? We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the Illuminate Play Conference 2026 a success!

Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

Location: Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, 1316 33 St NE, Calgary, AB

Time Commitment:

Saturday, November 7, 2026

7:00 AM – 5:00 PM: 5-hour shifts

Why Volunteer?

Events like this are only as successful as the wonderful volunteers who help us make this event go smoothly.

  • Network: Connect with industry leaders, speakers, and other professionals and experts in Play and early childhood.
  • Build Connections: Meet other passionate play advocates to create communities of practice, mentorship possibilities and potential job opportunities.
  • Experience: Gain hands-on experience in event management, communication and teamwork.
  • Community: Be part of an inspiring team making a difference in early learning and childcare.
  • Perks: We want to make sure YOU feel valued!
    • Complimentary ticket to the 2026 Illuminate Play Conference
    • Orientation before AND on day of volunteering
    • Team Lead to support you
    • Meals included
    • Event volunteer T-shirt
    • Volunteer certificate
    • Volunteer Thank You gift
    • Public recognition and appreciation at conference
    • Opportunity for future roles
    • Discount for 2027 Illuminate Play Conference

Volunteer Positions

Here are some ways that you can volunteer and support our event. Confirmation of roles and times will be sent to approved volunteers before the event.

  • Event Setup and Breakdown
  • Registration & Welcome Desk
  • Wayfinding & Information Support
  • Breakout Room Monitors/Speaker Support
  • Exhibitor/Vendor Support
  • Illuminate Play Lab Support
  • Conversation Cafe Host
  • Board Game Cafe Host
  • Social Media Support
  • Door Prize Support

Download our Volunteer Form Here!

Want to join us? Fabulous! To inquire about volunteering, click on the above link or contact Karen Turner at illuminateaecpcn@gmail.com.

Join us in making the Illuminate Play Conference 2026 a memorable experience for all attendees!

Student Volunteer Program!

AECPCN and the Illuminate Play Conference are proud to partner with local colleges to allow their students, enrolled in Early Learning and Child Care and Early Education programs, an opportunity to engage in community events that will support them on their learning journey.

Volunteering at a professional conference offers students:

  • Playful inspiration to bring back to their studies and future practice
  • Hands-on experience in event organization and hospitality
  • Opportunities to network with professionals, educators, and play advocates
  • A behind-the-scenes look at how large-scale learning events run
  • Skill-building in communication, teamwork, and leadership

Are you attending one of our partner colleges and enrolled in their Early Learning and Child Care or Early Education program? Are you interested in being a student volunteer? Please contact your program advisor for more information.

2026 Educational Partner

The Play Connection Network is proud to announce our Educational Partners for the Illuminate Play Conference 2026.

TBA

Thank you to our 2025 Student Volunteer Partner Colleges!

MaKami College & Norquest College