There is great pride in witnessing and supporting the exceptional youth participating in the American Legion’s National High School Oratorical Competition; fewer things can be rewarding. The American Legion’s Oratorical program has gifted this nation with talented individuals since 1938. In 2024, the Oratorical Finals Contest relocated to a venue more fitting of this prestigious program—Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. The benefits of this program are endless, but some amenities and luxuries that volunteers have become accustomed to over the years may not be available and should be understood before volunteering.
The campus is small campus that sits upon a hill. All buildings used during the Oratorical Contest Finals are within walking distance of each other. Volunteers must have the ability to walk unassisted for up to two miles per day with planned exposure to outdoor elements, this includes but not limited to heat, rain, wind, and snow. You must be able to walk up/down steps without assistance in a reasonable amount of time, as some buildings do not have elevators. There will be no transportation assistance provided so none should be expected.
As a volunteer, you will be provided with housing at "no cost", to you. Please note you will be housed in a college dormitory, not a hotel setting. You will be sharing a room with another individual, AND sharing a bathroom. It is important to understand that Hillsdale College and American Legion Staff cannot accommodate special needs or requests. Luxuries such as television, refrigerators, and coffee makers, etc. will not be available in your room.
If these accommodations are not to your liking, you are welcome – at your own cost – to stay in a hotel and commute to Hillsdale’s campus. Transportation will not be provided. There are no rideshare options in Hillsdale, so you will need to have your own vehicle-at your own cost. Below is a list of hotels in the general area, but please plan accordingly for commute time:
Days Inn by Wyndham, Hillsdale – 517-439-3297
Quality Inn & Suites, Coldwater – 517-278-2017
Best Western Plus, Coldwater – 517-279-0900
Holiday In Express, Coldwater – 517-924-1700
Food will be provided during meal hours – at no cost – to volunteers in the cafeteria. While a wide variety of food options are available, please note they are not made-to-order. For those with dietary restrictions, we recommend you come prepared or have a plan for your dining needs.
As a Volunteer, you MUST read and understand the job descriptions for the position you signed up for and accept the venue’s limitations. Also, please make yourself available for the briefing and walk through on Friday evening.
We look forward to seeing you at Hillsdale College.
