Volunteers – Behind and on the Scenes

Linda Lucchetti, Roving Reporter

Volunteerism is a cornerstone of our community. Volunteers regularly donate their time in countless ways to enhance the lives of others. This summer, we salute those volunteers who are not only behind the scenes but on the scenes during the annual Summer Amphitheater Concert Series (SACS).

Residents and guests look forward to summertime when they can plop their lawn chairs at the amphitheater, grab a refreshment, and sit back for an evening of live outdoor music. To help streamline the process of successfully executing the season’s 10 concerts, Judy Tyberg is the staff person behind the scenes leading a group of some 100 SACS volunteers.

Judy Tiber leads a volunteer pre-concert meeting

You might know Judy from her stint at the OC Lifestyle Desk. You also may be captivated by her British accent, which is still pleasingly evident after residing in the U.S. for decades. Judy is a whirl of friendly energy perfect for leading and assisting others. Ironically, she stepped into the SACS role after serving as a volunteer herself for several years. “I had great mentors,” she says.

The SACS volunteers are recognizable at concerts, all sporting blue and white T-shirts while stationed at outdoor or indoor locations around OC.

Volunteer Sandi is stationed outdoors

Volunteers work during either of two shifts, some manning entrance areas to greet and guide attendees, check wristbands, offer directions, or answer questions. Others are assigned to outdoor spots to which Judy urges, “Keep hydrated” during high temperatures. Prior to the concerts, Judy meets with each shift to review job assignments and safety protocols. She knows her team well, speaking highly of them as capable, personable, and kind. She carefully plans their assignments for each concert, maintaining information on spreadsheets.

Bob Johnson, 13-year SACS volunteer, checks a wristband

Bob Johnson has been volunteering with SACS for 13 years and looks forward to his Friday night assignments. You’ll see him cheerfully checking wristbands at his busy station by the Fitness Center. “I get to meet lots of people,” he says, so much so that by now, patrons know him by name. Of all the concerts he’s witnessed over the years, he divulged, “Only two were not exactly to my liking.” Those are pretty good odds!

In addition to working the SACS events, volunteers may also assist throughout the year at shows in the Ballroom (OC), organized by Entertainment Coordinator Cody Meikle.

Thank you, SACS volunteers –YOU are the welcoming faces of Lincoln Hills, working together “in concert” and on the scenes to help audiences enjoy the show!