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Van Loading (Thursday)

Schedule

Section titled “Schedule”

When: Thursday evening: 18:00-22:00 (4 hours, one-time task)

Where: FOSDEM Office, Kortenberg (exact address provided closer to event)

Team size: 8-15 volunteers

What is van loading?

Section titled “What is van loading?”

Load all equipment, materials, and supplies from the FOSDEM office into vans for transport to ULB for Friday’s buildup. High physical intensity work with free pizza included!

Requirements

Section titled “Requirements”
  • Physical fitness for 2 hours of lifting and carrying
  • Practical clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes (essential)
  • Teamwork attitude
  • Optional: work gloves

What you’ll be doing

Section titled “What you’ll be doing”
  • Move equipment and materials from storage to vans
  • Load boxes, cables, signage, and supplies
  • Organize loads to maximize space and protect equipment
  • Team lift heavy items safely
  • Follow coordinator’s instructions

Task workflow

Section titled “Task workflow”
  1. Arrive by 18:00
  2. Check in with coordinator
  3. Begin loading equipment into vans
  4. Work in teams for heavy items
  5. Follow load organization instructions
  6. Complete loading
  7. Enjoy free pizza!

Transportation

Section titled “Transportation”

By Public Transport from Brussels:

  • Train from Brussels to Kortenberg (~30-40 min)
  • From Kortenberg station: ~10-15 min walk to FOSDEM office
  • Check NMBS/SNCB for schedules

By Public Transport from Leuven:

  • Train from Leuven to Kortenberg (~15 min)
  • From Kortenberg station: ~10-15 min walk to FOSDEM office
  • Check NMBS/SNCB for schedules

By Car:

  • Carpool with other volunteers (check Matrix channel)
  • Parking information provided with exact address

Safety

Section titled “Safety”
  • Lift properly - use your legs, not your back
  • Ask for help - with heavy items
  • Communicate - when moving large items together
  • Take breaks - if needed
  • Stay hydrated - drinks provided!

What to bring

Section titled “What to bring”
  • Comfortable, practical clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes (essential!)
  • Warm layers - you may be going in and out of buildings
  • Personal phone - for Matrix communication if needed

Why volunteer?

Section titled “Why volunteer?”
  • Essential behind-the-scenes role
  • Meet other volunteers and staff
  • Be part of FOSDEM launch
  • Free pizza
  • Satisfaction of hands-on contribution

Questions? #volunteers:fosdem.org