So, you are wondering “What IS Faffcon?”. FaffCon is an unconference, by and for working voice over professionals, helping each other figure out how to get better at what we do.

But what is an “Un-Conference”? I was wondering the same thing. At an unconference, you are not talked to. Participants decide the agenda and lead the discussions as we all sit in a circle – peer to peer. The objective and guiding principle is: Get what you need; share what you can.

I know what you are thinking – What? They are trusting us to be in charge of this? We are just voice over artists! But actually when Amy Snively – the brain child behind this new adventure, explained how an unconference works– it made sense and went very smoothly! At the opening session of Faffcon, participants start thinking of things they want to share with the other attendees. They write down their discussion topic on a postcard and put it up on the agenda wall on the day and time they want to lead the session. Topics ranged from performance to technical to marketing/business and beyond.

Now it's no secret about our community and how sharing and helpful we all are to each other but Faffcon goes above and beyond by donating proceeds to a local charity in the city that the event is being held. 53 Voice Actors attended the first Faffcon, held September 11 & 12, 2010 in Portland, Orgeon and raised $2,000.00 for The Oregon Scottish Rite Clinics' Kid Talk Program – dedicated to helping Oregon's kids with language disorders. Faffcon 2 continued to grow and was held in Atlanta, Georgia – February 25 – 27, 2011 with 76 in attendance, plus 2 in spirit. $2,000.00 was raised for Everybody Wins Atlanta – dedicated to promoting children's literacy through shared reading experiences with caring individuals.

At Faffcon you will see old friends, make new friends and finally meet in person – other voice talents you've been talking to for some time now. All in all – it is a very fun and educational weekend, you will get ideas that you can take home and put into action. The networking is priceless and the whole experience is incredible and there are some great door prizes too!

So – why did they name it “Faffcon”? I personally can't give you an answer on that. And just so you know – there is a mascot. A dolphin named “Faffy” – and people kiss it! And speaking of kisses – I highly recommend you attend Faffcon 3 – which will be held September 23 – 25, 2011 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Find out more at Faffcon.com.