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Volunteer talking to adults at Zoo Trekker cart at the Zoo

Education Volunteers

Volunteers engage with guests at stationary carts throughout the Zoo focused on the Zoo’s field conservation projects (e.g., headstarting, SMART) and our animal wellbeing messages (e.g., nutrition, vet care). Through training and the use games, activities, biofacts, and the Zoo’s living collection, volunteers enhance the conversation to create fun, educational, and memorable experiences. 

Time Commitments

Volunteers should be available to commit to two shifts each month

Available shifts: March - November, Wednesdays - Sundays, 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Summer only options: Available June – August with a minimum commitment of one shift weekly. Submit Volunteer Interest Form beginning May 3.

 

Training

Training is conducted onsite and will provide a clear understanding of the Zoo’s mission; introduce ecology and how all things are connected discussing human influences; demonstrate effective communication skills, and teach volunteers how to incorporate conservation messages into guest interactions. 

 

Age Requirement

Minimum age requirement is 16 years old. Youth between the ages of 12 - 15 years old can volunteer for this assignment with their parent or legal guardian. This adult must complete all required documents, training, and be available to serve alongside the child at each scheduled shift. 

 

Onboarding Timeline to Attend March Orientation

We are excited about your interest in joining our volunteer team and being part of our Zoo community. We offer multiple onboarding cycles to help match varying schedules.

To attend the March orientation, all onboarding steps listed below must be completed within the designated timeframes to ensure a smooth and successful start.

If your schedule doesn’t allow you to complete these steps at this time, additional opportunities will continue through the coming months. Beginning March 12, you’ll be able to view the onboarding timeline for the April orientation. 

We appreciate your interest and look forward to connecting with you when the timing is right!

Step 1: Volunteer Interest Form

Click to submit a Volunteer Interest Form 

  • Deadline to submit form: March 11

Step 2: Information Session

Information Sessions will be conducted virtually.

  • March (You will choose ONE date to attend)
    • Thursday, March 19 from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
    • Saturday, March 21 from 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Step 3: Orientation

Orientations will be conducted virtually.

  • Must complete step 2 to receive the Zoom link to attend
  • March
    • Saturday, March 28 from 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Step 4: Onsite Zoo Visit

Onsite Zoo Visit 

  • Must complete step 3 to attend
  • April (You will choose ONE date to attend)
    • Tuesday, April 7 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
    • Wednesday, April 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
    • Saturday, April 11 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Step 5: Onsite Training

Complete onsite training on (date to be determined)

  • Must complete step 4 to attend

Step 6: Begin Volunteering!

After all onboarding steps have been completed, you can begin volunteering