Wildlife Outreach Volunteer

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Apply today at mowildlife.org/volunteer!

Education Volunteers assist in off-site booth events, on-site programs for schools, scout groups, and community groups, birthday parties, camps and Center events. Volunteers will share information about the work of the Center, native wild animals, and inspire the public to live harmoniously with wild neighbors. At a booth event, our primary goal is to create awareness for our public services.

On-site/Outreach/Camp Programs:

Duties:

• Stay up-to-date with the education calendar; read and respond to program assistance requests from Education or Volunteer Manager
• Arrive on-time and prepared for programs according to agreed-upon schedule
• Provide biologically sound information to children and adults while following policies and procedures of the Wildlife Rescue Center
• Assist with setup and breakdown of classroom and facilities
• Assist in the planning of program activities as needed, including researching, writing handouts, creating field guides, and preparing for crafts
• As a team member, lead a variety of environmental activities such as looking for animal clues, scavenger hunts, den building, and creek walking
• Identify and respond to participant issues and concerns while adhering to program objectives and maintaining safety
• Take a leadership role in the inclusion of all participants in activities

Training:

• New Volunteer Orientation
• Program observations and participation
• On-the-job training with staff at events
• Attend event orientation meetings, as needed

Qualifications:

• Reliable transportation to/from programs
• Have regular access to e-mail
• Ability to lift 25 pounds
• Good working knowledge of the Center, its programs, and native wildlife
• Classroom, camp, child care, environmental education or equivalent experience
• Must be able to operate as a team of leaders, communicate successfully to coordinate activities, and maintain a positive and safe environment for participants
• Ability to stay calm and listen to a child’s needs and concerns in the face of misbehavior, fears or anxiety, and confrontations
• Ability to provide caring attention to a child’s interests, issues, and curiosities as they interact with animals and/or the natural environment
• Ability to accept supervision, guidance, and constructive feedback

Booth Events:

Duties:

• Stay up-to-date with the education calendar, read and respond to program assistance requests from Education or Volunteer Manager
• Arrive on-time and prepared for programs according to agreed-upon schedule
• Provide biologically sound information to children and adults while following policies and procedures of the Wildlife Rescue Center
• Check for proper quantities of handouts and monitor condition of display board and pop-up tent; pick up and return equipment from the Center, as needed
• Assist with setup and breakdown of booth equipment at event
• Distribute brochures, magnets, or other informational materials to event patrons
• Describe Wildlife Rescue Center services in appropriate, concise language; answer questions or direct public to appropriate resources
• Engage event patrons in educational activities such as wildlife art projects or games, medical care demonstrations, and the exploration of x-rays and natural items

Training:

• New Volunteer Orientation
• On-the-job training with staff at events

Qualifications:

• Reliable transportation to/from programs
• Have regular access to email
• Ability to lift 25 pounds
• Possess enthusiasm and patience
• Ability to have friendly, informal interactions with a variety of audiences and age groups
• Good working knowledge of the Center, its programs, and native wildlife
• Previous trade show, customer service, receptionist, front desk, docent, hostess or informal education or equivalent experience
• Excellent people skills including reading interests, gauging investment, moderating responses, and talking effectively
• Ability to stay positive when faced with differing opinions
• Ability to accept supervision, guidance and constructive feedback

Overall Policies & Procedures:

• Follow dress code
• Follow all written and oral directions
• Record volunteer hours online
• Notify Education Program Manager of any vacations, long absences or if you no longer wish to be on the Education team