Picnic in the Park

Standard Operating Procedure

PRE-EVENT

Preparation Checklist:

  • Atheists United Signage

    • A clear, visible sign to help attendees easily locate the group

  • Sign-In Form/Sheet

    • For attendees to sign in. This can be a simple paper form or a digital option (e.g., QR code to a Google Form).

  • Pens/Pencils

    • If using a physical sign-in sheet.

  • Shared Snack

    • A snack provided by the hosts to share with attendees

  • Picnic Blankets/Lawn Chair

    • In case the tables are occupied by birthday parties

  • Hand Sanitizer

    • For general use

DAY-OF-EVENT

Arrival & Setup:

  • Arrive Early

    • Aim to arrive at the park at least 10-15 minutes before the official start time

  • Locate Spot

    • Head towards the picnic tables near the playground.

    • These tables are often reserved for birthday parties, so start at a table but be prepared to move out onto the grass with the blanket/chairs.

  • Set Up Signage

    • Place the Atheists United sign in a prominent, easily visible location so attendees can find the group

  • Prepare Sign-In

    • Set up the sign-in form/sheet in an accessible spot

  • Display Snacks

    • Place the shared snacks in a central location as they arrive

Welcoming Attendees:

  • Be Approachable

    • As the host, you’re the face of Atheists United

    • Maintain a friendly and open demeanor

  • Casual Atmosphere

    • Emphasize the casual, pressure-free nature of the event. Encourage attendees to relax, mingle, and enjoy themselves

  • Sign-In Guidance

    • Politely direct new arrivals to the sign-in form

  • Introduce Attendees

    • Facilitate introductions among attendees, especially new ones, to help them feel comfortable

During the Event:

  • Engage & Mingle

    • Circulate among the group, chat with attendees, and help foster conversation

  • Snack Management

    • Ensure the shared snacks are accessible and replenished if needed (if multiple snacks are brought by hosts/attendees)

  • Address Questions

    • Be prepared to answer questions about Atheists United or future events

  • Utilize Park Amenities

    • Remind attendees of the park's features (dog-friendly, kid-friendly playground, bathrooms) as needed

POST-EVENT

Clean Up & Depart:

  • Gather Materials

    • Collect all Atheists United signage, the sign-in form, any remaining snacks, and personal belongings

  • Clean Up

    • Ensure the picnic area is free of trash and left cleaner than it was found. Use the provided trash bag for any waste

  • Depart

    • Once the area is clean and all materials are packed, depart from the park

Important Notes

  • Attendee Contributions

    • Attendees are encouraged to bring their own meal, snack, blanket, or lawn chair

  • Park Features

    • The park is dog-friendly, kid-friendly (with a playground), and has bathrooms available

  • Flexibility

    • The exact location within the park may vary based on table availability