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- Adult Volunteers
Adult Volunteers
From animal care (cleaning, handling, etc.) to gardening; talking with visitors to helping with classes; exhibit maintenance to special events the zoo has something for everyone. Did we mention lots of cleaning?
*The 2017 application period is now closed*
Applicants must complete an application, pass a background check, and attend an interview with zoo staff. If accepted, you must complete the required training.
If chosen, all adult volunteers must attend a general volunteer training session, approximately six hours long, held in the spring. At your interview, we will discuss upcoming training dates and times.
Once you've completed general training, you will need additional training depending on your interests.
Options include:
Apply
*The 2017 application period is now closed*
Applicants must complete an application, pass a background check, and attend an interview with zoo staff. If accepted, you must complete the required training.
Train
If chosen, all adult volunteers must attend a general volunteer training session, approximately six hours long, held in the spring. At your interview, we will discuss upcoming training dates and times.
Learn
Once you've completed general training, you will need additional training depending on your interests.
Options include:
- Animal Care (exhibit care, cleaning, preparing animal diets, etc.)
- Education program support such as outreach and on-grounds programs
- Gardening
- Maintenance
- Enrichment
Costs & Benefits
- Purchase a uniform shirt (prices from $15-$30) and wear black pants or long shorts
- Must become a member of the Tautphaus Park Zoological Society (prices range from $25-$100) but you get a 50% discount on the annual membership fee as long as you are an active volunteer
- 20% discount in the Explorer's Station Gift shop
- Admission to the zoo depending on the Tautphaus Park Zoological Society (TPZS) membership you select, plus admission to those special events included with your membership.
- If you choose to help in the Primate Center, proof of a negative tuberculosis test is required every two years. A current tetanus booster is strongly recommended. Contact your physician or District 7 Health Department for costs and details.