Michigan City Parks & Recreation Department

Michigan City, IN (January 26, 2012) - Washington Park Zoo is seeking dedicated volunteers for the 2012 season.

ZOO DOCENTS NEEDED
Whether you are a high school student or a retiree, if you are a positive, energetic person who likes working with people, the Washington Park Zoo has the wild volunteer opportunity that is right for you. Volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year and are essential members of our staff.  Volunteering at the Zoo offers you a tremendous opportunity to become involved with the Zoo's educational programs and beautification efforts. Volunteering is a wonderfully rewarding experience that directly benefits the Zoo and helps us advance our mission and goals.  We're always looking for more volunteers. We can accommodate you whether you want to volunteer from time to time or on a regular basis. If you love animals, love people, and love the idea of working at the Zoo, we have a place for you.

Education Volunteers will attend an orientation session and once accepted will receive a volunteer handbook and attend twice a month classes at the zoo on various zoological subjects in the zoo’s classroom.  After attending four sessions, the volunteer will receive a shirt and nametag and will obtain free annual TB testing required for volunteers working in animal care departments.  PLEASE NOTE: Docent volunteers must be at least 18 years old; all volunteers must be willing to work outdoors and at times be on their feet for their entire shift.

JOIN ZOO TEEN CLUB
Do you have a teenager who loves animals? Perhaps one who already has a menagerie, but wishes he or she could care for more animals? Or maybe your teen dreams of working with animals, being a veterinarian or a zookeeper some day.
Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City is starting a Zoo Teen program that will give young adults exposure to career opportunities there, which could be a stepping stone to making their dreams a reality.  This program is designed for student’s ages 14 through 18 years of age.  Students must have a sincere interest in learning about animals and working for a zoological organization.

INFORMATION
Interested individuals do not need to pre-register to attend the kick-off meeting that will be held at the zoo on February 21st at 6:00 pm.  Regardless of age all volunteers interested must bring the following items to the meeting:

• Application (located on zoo website)
• Cover letter and Resume (Why & Who information)

Volunteer under 18 years of age please bring a parent/guardian with you to the meeting or a signed permission slip. The application process currently opens February 19st, 2012.  The group will meet on selected Sunday evenings from May to August.

A $40.00-training fee includes a volunteer instruction manual as well as a T-shirt for Zoo Teens and a vest uniform for Zoo Docents.  Training will be limited to class size of 12 docents and 12 zoo teen volunteers.  Volunteers will support the Zoo's mission by volunteering their time and talents by participating in educational programs, on-grounds programs, special events and having the opportunity to assist in an animal areas in exchange for classes in wildlife conservation, zoo management and animal behavior.  Combine these class experiences with volunteering and you get one amazing opportunity to work with animals and learn and teach others!  

Wild Opportunities and benefits of volunteering with the Washington Park Zoo are:

• Personal development and recognition of being an experienced exotic animal care taker
• Assist with community outreach animal presentation to people of all ages
• Receive extensive animal, plant and conservation training
• Invitations to special Zoo functions and opportunities to participate at special events
• Receiving Quarterly “At The Zoo” Newsletter
• Attend annual volunteer recognition party
• 10% discount at Zoo Gift Shops
• 30% discount at Food and Beverage Stands

For more information please visit washingtonparkzoo.com, or email Zoo Director Johnny Martinez at   This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.    We can be reached by phone at 219-873-1510.

• Download the Washington Park Zoo Volunteer / Docent Press Release

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