Orientation & Volunteer Events 

Online Volunteer Orientation – March 2026 

You will receive an official email invitation from SCA with details and a link to the online orientation session held in March 2026. Attendance is strongly encouraged to help you prepare and get your questions answered. 

Onsite Volunteer Reception 

Volunteers will also receive an invitation to a special onsite Volunteer Reception during the event (on Saturday from 5pm-7pm)— a chance to meet fellow volunteers, event staff, SCA leadership members and community members. 

What to Bring as a Volunteer 

To stay comfortable and prepared: 

✔ Bring your own lunch 

• Food onsite can be expensive or lines may be long — packing lunch saves money and time. 

✔ Bring any needed medication 

• Keep daily or emergency medications with you in your day-bag. 

✔ Wear closed-toe, comfortable shoes 

• You may be standing, walking, or moving equipment. Closed-toe shoes are required for many volunteer roles. 

✔ Other essentials 

• Water bottle 

• Portable phone charger 

• Snacks 

• Lightweight backpack/day-bag 

Health & Safety

• Stay hydrated (especially during long shifts) 

• Take scheduled breaks 

• Let coordinators know immediately if you feel unwell 

• Follow all onsite safety guidelines 

Volunteer Lounge – Location 

The Volunteer Lounge is located in the Lobby of the event venue (San Diego Convention Center Lobby area). 
Here you can: 

• Check in for every volunteer shift – so we know you’ve arrived 

• Receive your unique volunteer shirt 

• Take a break! 

Getting to the Venue – Transportation Options 

1. San Diego Trolley (Recommended) 

• Stop: Convention Center Station (Green Line) 

• Drops you directly across the street from the venue 

• Runs ~every 15 minutes (Tip: If staying in Mission Valley, Old Town, or the beach areas, trolley access is frequent and reliable)

2. Buses (MTS) 

• Multiple MTS bus routes serve the downtown area and connect directly to trolley lines. 

To use either of the above, use the PRONTO Card / App 

• Works for all buses + Trolley 

• One-way fare: approx $2.50 

• Fare capping prevents you from paying more than a day pass 

• Contactless bank cards or mobile wallets also work 

Accomodation List (Budget-Friendly Recommendations)

(SCA is not affiliated with these accommodations and not responsible for accuracy, pricing, or availability.) 

Please note that we have secured affordable hotel room options especially for volunteers at World of Coffee San Diego. Your volunteer shift confirmation email contains a link to register for your entry badge, you will see affordable hotel room offers when registering for your badge. Below are some additional options, but please note these are not affiliated in any way nor have we tried or tested—we just collected a list of recommendations to help you start your own research.

Hostel Suggestions 

• Gaslamp Hostel – 2–8 min walk; $35–$60 

• HI San Diego Downtown Hostel – 10–12 min walk; $40–$70 

• ITH Adventure Hostel – 15–20 min walk / 8 min trolley; $35–$55 

• Samesun Ocean Beach Hostel – 25–35 min transit; $35–$60 

Budget Hotel Suggestions 

• Motel 6 Airport/Harbor – 15–20 min trolley; $75–$120 

• Days Inn Hotel Circle – 20–25 min via Green Line; $90–$140 

• Old Town Inn – 15–20 min trolley; $110–$160 

• Comfort Inn Gaslamp – 12–15 min walk; $95–$150

Meal Suggestions (Cheap, Vegetarian & Vegan Options) 

All are near the Gaslamp Quarter / downtown, convenient for volunteers. 

1. Plant Power Fast Food – Vegan 

• 100% plant-based 

• Burgers, fries, bowls 

• Usually $10–$14 per meal 

2. Lola 55 Tacos 

• Veg-friendly options (cauliflower taco, mushroom taco) 

• Affordable gourmet tacos 

3. Sultan Baklava Mediterranean Grill 

• Great for vegetarians: falafel, hummus, lentils 

• Many dishes under $12 

4. Café Gratitude (Vegan/Vegetarian) 

• Plant-based bowls, tacos, and salads 

• Slightly higher price range ($12–$18), but healthy and filling 

5. The Taco Stand (Vegetarian Options) 

• Veggie burritos, veggie tacos 

• Very budget-friendly 

6. pokez (Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly, Mexican Fusion) 

• Longtime San Diego favorite 

• Many vegan substitutions available 

7. Ralphs Grocery Store – Downtown 

• Great for budget lunches 

• Grab-and-go bowls, salads, wraps, fruit, snacks 

8. 7-Eleven / CVS / Target 

• Affordable snacks, quick meals, hydration, coffee, fruit 

Disclaimer: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is not affiliated with, does not endorse, and is not responsible for any third-party lodging, restaurant, transportation, or pricing information in this fact sheet. All external recommendations are for informational and volunteer convenience only and may change at any time. Volunteers should verify prices, availability, and locations independently.