Get Involved
stirring up the stewth
The Boulder Soup Census is powered by community volunteers who believe in understanding our local food culture through data and conversation. Whether you have 2 hours or 20, there's a way for you to contribute to this unique research project.
Why Volunteer?
Your contribution helps us build a comprehensive, community-driven understanding of soup preferences in Boulder. Every volunteer hour translates directly into richer data, deeper insights, and a more complete picture of what Boulder loves in a bowl.
Volunteer Opportunities
Field Surveyors
Commitment: 2-4 hours per shift | Outdoors | People-oriented
What you'll do: Conduct street intercept surveys at farmers markets, parks, and community events. You'll ask Boulderites about their soup preferences, record responses on printed survey forms, and hand out thank-you cards with QR codes.
Skills needed: Friendly demeanor, comfortable approaching strangers, basic note-taking. Training provided!
When: Flexible scheduling during survey collection period (primarily weekends and evenings)
Data Entry Volunteers
Commitment: 3-6 hours total | Remote-friendly | Detail-oriented
What you'll do: Digitize completed paper surveys by entering responses into our CSV template. You'll help transform handwritten forms into analyzable data while maintaining quality standards.
Skills needed: Attention to detail, basic spreadsheet skills (Excel/Google Sheets), ability to decipher handwriting. Data dictionary provided for reference.
When: Flexible hours, work from home, during data processing phase
Data Analysts
Commitment: 5-10 hours | Remote-friendly | Technical
What you'll do: Help analyze survey results using Python, R, or your tool of choice. Create visualizations, identify patterns, and contribute to our understanding of Boulder's soup culture.
Skills needed: Experience with data analysis tools (Python/pandas, R, Tableau, etc.), basic statistics knowledge, data visualization skills
When: Flexible timing during analysis phase (after data collection complete)
Community Ambassadors
Commitment: 1-3 hours | Social media or in-person | Creative
What you'll do: Spread the word about the census through social media, community boards, local soup-loving businesses, and word-of-mouth. Help us reach diverse Boulder residents and maximize participation.
Skills needed: Enthusiasm for the project, social media savvy (optional), connections to Boulder community groups
When: Ongoing throughout the project, especially during survey collection
Event Support
Commitment: 2-3 hours per event | In-person | Varied tasks
What you'll do: Assist with community presentations of census results, help set up tabling events, support soup-themed gatherings, and facilitate conversations about the findings.
Skills needed: Flexibility, teamwork, willingness to help where needed
When: During results presentation phase and community events
What We Provide
- Training materials: Comprehensive interviewer guide and quick reference cards for field surveyors
- All supplies: Survey forms, clipboards, pens, thank-you cards for participants
- Data tools: CSV templates, data dictionaries, and clear documentation
- Flexible scheduling: Work when it fits your calendar
- Community: Connect with fellow soup enthusiasts and data lovers
- Recognition: Credit on the website and in any presentations/publications (if desired)
Ready to Volunteer?
We'd love to have you on the team! Email us at bouldersoupcensus@gmail.com with:
- Your name and preferred contact method
- Which volunteer role(s) interest you
- Your availability (general timeframe)
- Any relevant skills or experience (optional)
Questions? Reach out anytime — we're happy to discuss how you can get involved!