Autocrat Success Kit
Contributed by the Autocrats of An Tir
Updated: 26 May 2004

The following article was compiled from a discussion on the An Tir Autocrats email list.

The question was asked, "I am looking for tips on what to have on me for "just in case" and "I really used ....". So If you could send me suggestions for my "autocrats box", that would be wonderful."

Many wonderful suggestions were sent in and this list is the result of their combined experience.

Paperwork:

• Current copies of required forms - Sign-in sheets, Adult waivers, Minor Waivers, Minor Medical Waivers


• Current Crier and current copy of the local newsletter.


• Extra copies of directions to and from site


• A receipt book


• A map or a set of directions to the local hospital, make 10 copies, and keep them easily accessible at gate. It is much easier to hand the driver a set of directions at 3am than a) try and create a map then or b) try to find someone local who is awake and doesn't mind an emergency trip into town.

Supplies:

• Variety of pens - Sharpies, large markers, ball point (waterproof!)


• Variety of paper - Blank, index, post-its


• Variety of tape - Masking, duct and clear.


• Thumb tacks


• Stapler with a box of extra staples
  
• Paperclips


• Box of clear plastic sheet protectors


• Clip boards


• Scissors

Tools:

• Measuring tape


• Caution tape


• Garden stakes


• Hammers - claw and sledge


• Emergency phone numbers and a cell phone (vendors, site, branch officers)


• Small tool kit (screw drivers, pliers, wrench, etc.)


• Walkie Talkies for communicating with key event volunteers


• A flash light and extra batteries (and an extra flashlight is nice).

Personal:

• Band-aids, they come in handy for those little paper cuts and all that.


• Water bottle (with water!)


• Comfortable shoes


• Sun screen and a hat


• Lip balm


• Notepad and pen


• Extra "thank you" treasures, for those people who volunteer at the last minute or who do that one special thing that really makes your day!!


• A "time-out" space.


• Snack food


• Drugs of choice, including migraine stuff, and gaviscon.


• $50 or so in small bills

People:

• A "remember-all" person. This person has no other specific task than to have a duplicate list of the things I'm supposed to remember to do. She (or he!) is also the volunteer coordinator, and has a list of those folks who have already agreed to do specific jobs.


• Someone to make you remember to eat and drink water at appropriate times.