The fourth H.O.P.E. conference (H2K2) is just over two months away. We're incredibly busy planning everything from speakers to what could be the largest hacker network ever assembled at a hacker conference. As always, we rely on the time and talent of volunteers to make it all possible. If you're interested in helping, this is what you need to know.

Volunteers in the New York metropolitan area are welcome to attend H2K2 coordinating meetings at Citigroup on the third Friday of each month, at the same time and place as the regular New York City 2600 meetings. There will also be sub-meetings at the monthly 2600 meetings, one of which is happening this Friday. Except where noted, no particular experience is required to be a volunteer at H2K2.

SECURITY

Do you have a cool head? Stay calm under pressure? Maybe you'd like to work with H2K2 security. Security will work around the clock to ensure a safe conference for everyone. Minimal time commitment: 12 hours.

AUDIO/VIDEO

Volunteers are needed for set-up and tear-down, and to run the sound and light boards. We will also use volunteer camerapeople to record speaker sessions. Some experience desired. Minimal time commitment: 8 hours.

STAGE MANAGEMENT

The stage management team will oversee smooth operation of speaker sessions. Interaction with A/V and speakers, as well as assisting with conference attendees' needs. Minimal time commitment: 8 hours.

NETWORK

Got network skills? Know how to splice cat5? Ever programmed a VLAN? Consider volunteering your time to work with the network team. The team will set up a large in-house network, manage network security, and ensure a good flow of data within and around the Hotel Penn. Minimal time commitment: 8 hours.

STREAMING MEDIA

Must have knowledge of streaming formats and ability to set up and operate the server software and operate encoding stations. Will coordinate with the network and web teams to deliver content to the H2K2 conference and the world. Minimal time commitment: 6 hours.

INFORMATION

H2K2 will have a 24-hour information desk on the 2nd floor of Hotel Penn, for everything from wireless access instructions to band-aids. Minimal time commitment: 4 hours.

PANELS/SPEAKERS

H2K2 will have a variety of speaker sessions, panel sessions, workshops and demonstrations. If you have an idea see the speakers section of the H2K2 site for more information.

EQUIPMENT

Got stuff? H2K2 can use equipment. Everything will be insured by the conference, and treated as nicely as possible.

Computer projectors. We need bright multimedia projectors, the kind that cost a fortune to rent and work in daylight.

Pro sound and light. Do you own professional sound, DJ gear, lighting, etc.? Want to make it available to H2K2? Get in touch!

Digital video (DV) cameras, for recording sessions.

H2K2 set-up is scheduled to start Thursday, July 11 and take-down will end Monday, July 15. The conference itself runs from Friday-Sunday. Most volunteer teams will be working from set-up through take-down, but the real action, for most, is Friday-Sunday. If you can help out in any of these areas, please email volunteers@h2k2.net.