Volunteer Opportunities
Zoo Crew
Want to work more closely with the animals? This year-round program offers individuals ages 16 and up the opportunity to take part in some of the Zoo’s day-to-day activities, like feeding, observing, cleaning and handling animals. There are also opportunities for giving demonstrations and helping out at our special events. This position is for a volunteer interested in a longer commitment and requires training. Learn more here or contact our Volunteer Coordinator via email or call 441-4205.
Upcoming Zoo Crew Orientations: (Staff approval required to attend)
- Sunday, March 3, 2013
- Sunday, June 2, 2013
- Sunday, September 1, 2013
- Sunday, December 1, 2013
Special Event Volunteers
The Zoo Foundation hosts several special fundraising events each year, and we always need help with running activity stations for the kids, serving up concessions and more. This is a perfect way to give back to the community, and all the funds raised at these events benefit the animals. Pick and choose which events to be a part of. Your time commitment can be as little as 4 hours, but it makes a huge impact! No experience is necessary - we'll provide the training and instruction you need. Please email us or call the Volunteer Coordinator at 441-4205 to learn more.
Youth Assistant Keepers (Y.A.K.)
Children ages 11 to 15 work closely with Zoo staff and learn about the Zoo's domestic animals and what it takes to care for them. Kids in this program help in multiple aspects of running the Zoo's barnyard: from feeding animals and supervising the Contact Corral to cleaning stalls and composting. The YAK programs runs for 10 weeks throughout the summer. Program registration opens April 1. Learn more here, or contact our Volunteer Coordinator via email or call 441-4205.
Zoo Interpreter Program
The Zoo Interpreter Program (ZIP) is a volunteer opportunity for those interested in inspiring the public through hands-on exploration of the Zoo’s exhibits and animals. If you have ever wanted to volunteer at the Zoo as a docent or guide, this is your opportunity. No experience is required, just a passion to share the Zoo and its mission. The program’s official season is Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Volunteer shifts take place on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-1pm and 1pm-3pm, plus set-up and take-down time. In its first year, we will introduce three Discovery Carts— Exploring Birds in the Aviary, Living with Raccoons in our Backyards and Keeping Bears Wild. Carts will include a variety of teaching tools such as eggs, feathers, fur, binoculars, skulls, tracks and more! Learn more here, or download a printable version of the application here.
Community Service
Opportunities to volunteer for specific community service projects are available on a short-term basis. Please inquire with the Zoo Manager regarding details, as far in advance of your needs as possible.
