Volunteer Programs

Volunteers in the Maintenance Department assist in the daily upkeep of our grounds, buildings, and gardens. Volunteers with special trade skills or experience may assist with more complex projects such as those involving carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, or painting. Some aspects of this department’s daily duties can require physical exertion, and a willingness to work out of doors is a must. Only volunteers over 18 with the proper skills and experience will be able to operate power tools. All Maintenance volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and will need to provide proof of a current tetanus inoculation (within 10 years).

Special Event volunteers have the opportunity to interact directly with our Zoo guests by assisting our Guest Services staff at any of our many special events. Join us at our Conservation Celebration or Nightmare at Elmwood and help us entertain our Zoo visitors with crafts, games, and other activities. The ability to work independently is a plus and a pleasant guest-friendly attitude is a must! Special Event volunteers must be 14 years of age or older.

Junior Camp Counselors are teen volunteers age 14 to 17 who assist the Camp Coordinator with arts and crafts projects, games and educational programs. Junior Camp Counselors must volunteer for at least two full weeks of camp, must attend a training session and must provide proof of a current tetanus inoculation (within 10 years). Some experience working with children is preferred and a cheerful, child-friendly attitude is a must! Applications are accepted and interviews are conducted for these positions in April and May.

We accommodate many requests for volunteer service projects from corporate groups, schools and scout troops. Group projects are generally assigned to assist the Facilities Department in maintaining the zoo’s gardens and grounds, or with special events. To plan your date of service, please call the Volunteer Coordinator to choose a date and suitable project or event for your group.