Volunteers seeking experience working with animals should consider the Zoo CREW program or the Junior Ambassador program. Qualified Junior Ambassadors may have the opportunity to work with animals after completing at least one-year of service.
Zoo Champions for Restoring Endangered Wildlife (Zoo CREW)
The Zoo offers a unique program specifically for deserving high school students.
Zoo CREW is a three-year, competitive, hands-on program that inspires and guides teens in action to directly help an endangered animal species.
Zoo CREW is primarily for students from lower-income households who are entering 10th grade and has a separate application process.
High School Internship
The High School Internship is designed to give high school students in their senior or junior year practical experience in environmental education and the opportunity to gain a broad background of the Zoo community and how it operates. Interns will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the Zoo’s everyday operations while providing an educational experience to our guests.
Click here for more information.
Now accepting applications for the 2012–2013 school year. Applications are due by April 1, 2013. Please note that this program is only available from September through June.
Summer Camp Counselor Assistants
Join our summer camp programs as we take "trips" into the Zoo to learn about the animal topic of the day, assist in animal lessons in the classroom and animal crafts.
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and have experience working with children which must be evidenced in at least one of the letters of recommendation. Preference is given to applicants with camp experience.
Click here for more information.
Summer Camp application deadline has been extended until by May 1, 2012.
Conservation Stewards
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. Click here for more information.
Deadline to apply is May 15.
Junior Ambassador Program
This opportunity is for highly independent, outgoing, high school aged students that enjoy interacting with guests and have a passion for animals and conservation. Junior Ambassadors lead organized activities and informal conversations to share the Zoo's mission of conservation with our guests. Volunteers commit to two 8 hour shifts per month during the school year, and one 8 hour shift per week in the summer.
Click here for more information.
The program is now closed until fall 2012.