What does a teen volunteer do?
Teen volunteers teach zoo visitors about the animals at the zoo. Volunteers assist with summer camps, birthday parties, sleepovers and other education programs. Teen volunteers also share what they learn about wildlife by talking with visitors at zoo exhibits and even use live animals and artifacts to educate others. At times, volunteers may also assist zoo keepers with daily duties.
Who can be a volunteer?
Teen volunteers must be currently enrolled in the 7th – 12th grade.
The zoo has an Adult Volunteer Program for those 18 years old and above. For more information on the Adult Volunteer Program, contact the zoo at 304-243-4033 or e-mail docents@oglebay-resort.com.
How do I become a volunteer?
- Fill out an application form.
Click here for a PDF of the Teen Volunteer Program.
Click here for a PDF of the Adult Volunteer Program.
- Get TWO recommendation forms completed by teachers, scout leaders or other adults who are not relatives. (Teachers are preferred.)
- Be interviewed by one of the zoo’s educators.
- If accepted into the volunteer training program, submit a $40 participation fee, which helps cover training materials, a uniform t-shirt, volunteer newsletter and more. (Scholarships available for those in financial need.)
- Attend training classes, which are held on Saturdays during February, March and April.
- Prove knowledge of training class material
How often can I volunteer?
After successfully completing the training program, teen volunteers are required to assist the zoo a minimum of 24 hours per month during the summer (June, July and August) and 8 hours per month during the fall and spring (September, October, April and May) and 4 hours per month the winter. Volunteers can set their own schedules by selecting from available time-slots.
The zoo is a fun and exciting place to volunteer!
Questions? E-mail docents@oglebay-resort.com or call 304-243-4068.
The deadline for applications and recommendation forms is JANUARY 5, 2009. No late or incomplete applications will be accepted.
Current Volunteers
Click here to access the Volunteer Information Center.
