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Conservation Stewards

The Conservation Stewards program is now closed for the year.  Applications will be accepted for next year beginning on March 1.

CONSERVATION STEWARDS provide interpretation and support for the new KidZooU exhibit between April 30 and October 31, 2013. During all activities, Conservation Stewards will be sharing the Zoo’s message about conservation particularly energy reduction. Successful volunteers will assist in delivering the experience by engaging guests at the action step stations. These stations could include helping with crafts, assisting a mini-lesson, teaching children about recycling or choosing an action they can do at home to help energy reduction. Conservation Stewards may work alone or be paired with education staff and volunteers. Adults and teens over the age of 14 are welcome to apply.

SCREENING AND TRAINING:

• All applicants must complete an online Volunteer Application and register to attend one of the information sessions. Information sessions will be held on April 16 and May 22 in the evening. Attendance at one of these sessions is required to be considered for the program.
• Teens must also bring a copy of their last report card and two letters of recommendation from adults not related to them (recommenders may use the Teen Recommendation Form) to the information session. Parents/guardians are encouraged to attend the information session as well.
• Applicants selected for the program will be invited to attend orientation. Orientations will be held on April 27 and June 1 in the morning. Participation in an orientation is required before beginning volunteer service.

COMMITMENT:

• Volunteers must commit to a minimum of six shifts.
• Shifts are 9am – 1:30pm or 1pm – 5:30pm, any day of the week. Scheduling is flexible.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Submit a cleared PA State Criminal Background Check and a cleared PA Child Abuse History Clearance. Volunteers aged 18 and older whose permanent residence is not in Pennsylvania will be asked to complete an FBI clearance.
• Communicate effectively with guests, including large crowds and individuals, of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
• Learn interpretive material quickly.
• Work outside for extended periods of time.
• Follow all Zoo policies as outlined in the Volunteer Handbook.
• The first shift is probationary. Education staff has the discretion to dismiss volunteers who do not successfully complete their first shift.

BENEFITS:

• Volunteer t-shirt and ID badge which entitle the volunteer to free admission and parking.
• 30% discount at concession stands and on most purchases at the ZooShop.
• 10% discount on fee-based programs and new memberships.
• Monthly volunteer newsletter.Invitation to volunteer events.
• 6 Zoo passes upon fulfillment of their commitment.
• Qualified volunteers may be invited to join other volunteer programs upon fulfilling the service commitment.