Teenagers interested in conservation can apply for the VolunTEEN program at the Kansas City Zoo and learn skills about animal conservation, leadership and workplace values.
Volunteer opportunities include educating zoo visitors about animal facts, working directly with animal keepers and leading activities at summer camps. The VolunTEEN program is a year-long program. Teenage volunteers complete six hours per month, with additional time in the summer that varies depending on program. All VolunTEENs must complete their first summer as “Trailblazers” before applying for other opportunities in the VolunTEEN program.
To apply for the Kansas City Zoo’s VolunTEEN program, a completed packet must be postmarked no later than March 15, 2016. Applications for returning VolunTEENs are due March 1.
The opportunities include:
New VolunTEEN program
Trailblazer volunteers interact with zoo guests of all ages by leading educational activities, presenting animal bio-facts, and educating the public about conservation. Most of their time is spent outside with the public at trail stations along the Australian Outback. They also engage and educate guests about animals and conservation under the direction of staff and docents.
This first summer program offers training and practice in public speaking and provides participants with a good understanding of what it takes to run a zoo.
Orientation for the Trailblazers is April 30. Time requirements include six hours each month year round, plus summer hours of 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., one weekday each week. Applications are due March 1.
Returning VolunTEEN options
Junior Keepers
Junior Keepers get hands-on experience working directly with animal keepers in various animal departments around the zoo. They work outside in all types of weather, where conditions can be muddy, stinky, hot, wet and dirty. The work of zookeepers requires many different tasks, including cleaning animal enclosures, chopping fruits and vegetables, and helping complete special projects.
Training for this program will be held May 25-26. Time requirements include six hours each month year round, and summer hours of 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., at least one weekday each week.
Junior Interpreters
Junior Interpreters educate zoo guests about animals, conservation and nature. They use various techniques to present conservation messages to guests, including interpretive carts, on-stage shows and small animal presentations.
Junior Interpreters also work in all types of weather. This position requires great flexibility, excellent public speaking skills, and good working knowledge of the Kansas City Zoo’s animal collection. Interaction and contact with educational animals will be required. Opportunities in other departments within the zoo (maintenance, horticulture, administration, etc.) may be available by request.
Training will be held May 31 and June 2. Time requirements include six hours each month year round, and summer hours of 8 a.m.- 4 p.m., at least one weekday each week.
Junior Counselors
Junior Counselors work with the Zoofari Adventures summer camps, helping campers ages 5 to 12 explore the world of animals through zoo tours, crafts, games and activities.
Junior Counselors will work with campers of all ages in all types of weather. This position requires patience, flexibility and excellent teamwork skills. Counselors will be expected to lead educational lessons, games, crafts and other activities.
A training day will be scheduled and is required to participate in this program. Time requirements include six hours each month year round, and summer hours of 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., at least two full weeks.
For more information, contact [email protected]. To apply, visit www.kansascityzoo.org/volunteen.