Volunteer

Volunteer Expectations

Volunteers must be 16 years of age.
Return a competed volunteer application
Attend training sessions. You must come to a Zoo Orientation before you start volunteering. And you MUST contact volunteers@mmzoo.org to sign up for a session. You will be notified of training times.
Complete 50 hours of volunteer work each year.
Become a Zoo member.
Notify staff before you come in to work; when, where and what hours you plan to work.
Be prompt and reliable when specific times are required for your position.
When possible, find your own substitute and notify staff of the substitution.
Notify the office of any changes in personal information (e.g. address, phone numbers, etc.).
Maintain the confidentiality of privileged information relative to all areas of the Zoo, its Staff and Volunteers.

Volunteers can expect:

Meaningful assignments that will be beneficial to you and the Zoo.
Sufficient instruction and supervision for assigned tasks.
Respectful and fair treatment by MMZoo staff.
Recognition for your contributions to MMZoo.
Inclusion in programs and events sponsored by MMZoo.
Kept up-to-date on all information pertinent to your position and responsibilities at MMZoo.
Support and encouragement in continuing education and skill development through your service at MMZoo.

Volunteer Opportunities

Gift Shop
Stock pricing, re-stocking, maintaining displays and preparing for groups.

Concessions
Re-stocking, tray pick-up and washing.

Grounds Maintenance
Involves planting, weeding, and trimming – you may adopt and maintain a spot, not adopted by a garden club.
Be available for weeding and trimming before special events or as needed.

Birthday Parties
Assist Guest Services Manager as needed.
Be available to assist with setup and tear down and guiding groups to activities.
Be available to give an animal education program of 20-30 minutes.

Education Assistant
Assist Education Manager as needed any day you are available.
Amphitheater presenter (involves handling small animals – for knowledge of animals, training is provided.
Update kiosk materials.

Roaming Volunteer
Walk around the Zoo providing information about Zoo and animals.
Report inappropriate behaviors (refer visitors to posted Zoo rules when necessary).
Relieve staff if necessary (gift shop and concessions)

Special Events
Holiday specific events, Fund raisers (on and off grounds).
Member recognition – Adult only (21 and over).
Time commitment and assignment vary with the event.

Special Projects – for special skills and/or interests
Construction skills – carpentry, plumbing, etc.
Graphic Arts/Photography
Horticulture
Fundraising

Mill Mountain Zoo Volunteer Rules and Regulations

Volunteers may work on zoo grounds only when a supervisor or their delegate is present.
Do not jump fences or barriers, always use gates.
Do not lean against fencing or exhibit exteriors.
Jewelry, perfume and cologne should NOT be worn while working with the animals.
Always report any accidents to the Director or staff on duty.
Walk a safe distance from the exhibits.
Never run or rush. Fast movements may frighten some animals or lead to injury you.
Know an animal’s behavior. If odd behavior is observed, report this to a supervisor or keeper staff.
Never attempt to feed an animal or leave a foreign object in reaching distance to tempt the animal.
Maintain respect for all animals and treat them as to their potential danger.
As a Zoo volunteer, you represent the Zoo. Never report to your assigned job under the influence of a controlled substance. If attending a Zoo event for your own pleasure, please enjoy the evening responsibly.
After operating hours, the Zoo hires security to guard Zoo grounds. During regular operating hours, Zoo staff and Volunteers should report suspicious activity and help visitors to remember the posted Zoo rules.