-
10 people are interested
Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center Volunteer
ORGANIZATION: National Park Service
Please visit the new page to apply.
-
10 people are interested
SEEKING:
Volunteers are needed to assist with visitor services at the Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center on the Rose Kennedy Greenway in downtown Boston - many people’s first stop on their journey to exploring the park. Work side-by-side with rangers as you share information with visitors about the islands, ferries, and Boston’s waterfront. Volunteer opportunity managed by the National Park Service.
ABOUT THE PARK:
The Boston Harbor Islands national park area (BOHA) includes 34 islands and peninsulas situated within the large "C" shape of the Greater Boston shoreline. The islands are rich in natural and cultural resources, and are managed by a unique, 13-member Partnership. The Boston Harbor Islands Partnership represents a range of federal, state, city, and nonprofit agencies. Visit bostonharborislands.org for more information.
ABOUT THE PAVILION:
The Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center is the first official gateway to Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area. The purpose of the pavilion is to provide visitor information and orientation about the park, park ferry, and park programs as well as provide information about activities on the Rose Kennedy Greenway, and the Boston Waterfront.
DUTIES/WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
There are two duty stations available to volunteers; Pavilion Volunteer and Art Ambassador.
Pavilion Volunteer: Work will consist of assisting rangers at the Boston Harbor Islands Pavilion on specific days and shifts. Specific duties include answering questions from the public and providing verbal and printed information as needed; providing visitors with clear instructions on how to plan their trip on the park ferry; informing visitors about programs and events; and, giving general park orientation. Additional support tasks include gathering materials needed from the main office, statistical information (tallying public contacts) and alerting rangers of any visitor service needs or issues that may arise.
Art Ambassador: Work will consist of interacting with visitors, providing guidance with the Art Cart and creating meaningful experiences and projects with and for visitors. Specific duties include opening and setting up cart, engaging young park visitors in play and art, maintaining the Art Cart and supplies making sure items are collected, taken care of, and put away at the end of the day.
QUALIFICATIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Previous experience is not required, but prior customer service training is helpful. Willingness to work as part of a team, with a variety of partners, is essential. Volunteers should enjoy working with the public, and be able to keep their composure in stressful and distracting situations. Volunteers must be able to commit to a regular schedule, be willing to learn about the park, Boston’s waterfront, and nearby attractions. Attendance at one park-held training session is required, additional training will be provided at the worksite.
The work is performed primarily at the Welcome Center, which is an open-air exhibit, defined by two sculptural canopies, and Long Wharf North and Long Wharf South. In this setting, volunteers should expect regular and recurring exposure to moderate discomforts, e.g., high or low temperatures, or adverse weather conditions. Interactions with visitors will be dynamic; rangers and volunteers are not confined to a kiosk, or desk space. The work involves standing for the majority of the shift, (though there is a stool available) with the possibility of some walking and carrying a backpack.
TIME COMMITMENT:
A minimum commitment of 10 shifts per season (May-October) is required. Completion of online course Informal Visitor Contacts and attendance at one park-held training session are required, date and time to be announced. We welcome help for all shifts, but volunteers are particularly needed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Shifts are described below:
Monday thru Thursday Shifts are 9:00am - 1:00pm, and 12:30am - 4:30pm
Friday thru Sunday Shifts are 9:00am - 1:00pm, 11:00am - 3:00pm, and 12:30 - 4:30pm
More opportunities with National Park Service
No additional volunteer opportunities at this time.
About National Park Service
Location:
15 State Street, Boston, MA 02109, US
Mission Statement
The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.
Description
The Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is a dynamic natural and cultural wonder with a diversity of experiences for volunteers and visitors alike. Volunteers have a very important role in helping to preserve and protect the islands' natural, cultural, historic and recreational resources, as well as to enhance visitor experiences on the islands. Whether you are looking to volunteer on a regular basis, plan a group volunteer event, or help out at a single day event or special program, there is a volunteer opportunity for you!
CAUSE AREAS
WHEN
WHERE
191w Atlantic AveBoston, MA 02110
DATE POSTED
May 28, 2019
SKILLS
- People Skills
- Public Speaking
- Verbal / Written Communication
GOOD FOR
- Teens
- People 55+
REQUIREMENTS
- Orientation or Training
- Looking for energetic and personable volunteers with a customer service background