Conservation Stewards provide interpretation and support for the “Trail of the Lorax” exhibit between April 1 and October 31, 2012. Successful volunteers will assist in delivering the experience by engaging guests at the action step station, being an assistant to the storytelling station and introducing the exhibit. During all activities, Conservation Steward will be sharing the Zoo’s message about conservation particularly habitat destruction. Conservation Stewards may work alone or be paired with education staff and volunteers. Adults and teens over the age of 14 who have completed at least one year of high school are welcome to apply.
Screening and Training:
- Applicants must submit a complete Volunteer Application. Applicants in high school must also submit a copy of their last report card and two letters of recommendation from adults not related to them (recommenders may also use the Teen Recommendation Form). Visit www.philadelphiazoo.org to download forms.
- Qualified applicants will be invited to complete an electronic questionnaire and attend an information session. Information sessions will be held on April 4 and May 30 in the evening.
- Applicants selected for the program will be invited to attend orientation after the information session. Orientations will be held on April 21 and June 16 in the morning.
Commitment:
- Volunteers must commit to a minimum of six shifts.
- Shifts are 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. any day of the week. Scheduling is flexible.
Requirements:
- Submit a cleared PA State Criminal Background Check and a cleared PA Child Abuse History Clearance. Volunteers whose permanent residence is not in Pennsylvania may be asked to complete an FBI clearance.
- Communicate effectively with guests, including large crowds and individuals, of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
- Learn interpretive material quickly.
- Work outside for extended periods of time.
- Follow all Zoo policies as outlined in the Volunteer Handbook.
- The first shift is probationary. Education staff has the discretion to dismiss volunteers who do not successfully complete their first shift.
Benefits:
- Volunteer t-shirt and ID badge which entitle the volunteer to free admission and parking.
- 30% discount at concession stands and on most purchases at the ZooShop.
- 10% discount on fee-based programs and new memberships.
- Monthly volunteer newsletter.
- Invitation to volunteer events.
- 6 Zoo passes upon fulfillment of their commitment.
- Qualified volunteers may be invited to join other volunteer programs upon fulfilling the service commitment.