Volunteers are vitally important to the Zoo. Some people love to interact with the public and educate about the animals and the Zoo's conservation programs. Some people love to garden and donate their time to the ongoing landscaping efforts. Others like to be indoors and help with filing or organizing. Yet others like to build or paint and help build or repair the Zoo's builings, fences, and other structures. Whatever you love to do, we can put your time and talents to good use. Here are some areas that could use your help:

• Special Events: Assist the marketing and education staff in hosting successful and educational zoo-wide events, including pre-planning activities, set-up, and clean-up.
• Education: Assist the Education Staff in a variety of jobs including record keeping, supply preparation, research, administrative/clerical support, special events, assisting zoo guests, and other programming support.
• Horticulture: Work with our horticulture staff on the daily requirements of park maintenance and assist with landscape management and habitat restoration projects.
• EMT: Work with our Security and Park Services staff in providing basic first aid and life support to ill or injured zoo guests. Assist with reuniting lost children and parents.
• Conservation: Work with the Conservation Director on a variety of projects and initiatives such as Quarters for Conservation, Greening and Sustainability, Creek and Butterfly Garden, and other administrative support such as research, writing, and preparing supplies.
• Administration: Provide clerical support to a variety of departments such as: Education, Conservation, Marketing, Membership, Group Services, and Development. Projects and tasks will vary by department.

General volunteer positions are for candidates age 18 and over. Interested candidates should download, complete, and submit a Volunteer Application at least 2 weeks prior to the next orientation date. All general volunteers must attend a volunteer orientation. Orientations are held four times per year (January, April, July, and October). Please see our Calendar of Events for specific dates and times.

After we recieve your application, we will contact you to confirm that your application has been received and you have been accepted for the next orientation. **You must receive confirmation that your application has been received and an invitation to attend orientation. Orientation is limited to 30 applicants.** At the orientation you will receive an overview of the Zoo and all of our volunteer programs. There is an optional tour of the zoo following orientation. Once you have attended orientation and chosen an area for your volunteer service, your application will be forwarded to the appropriate department. You will then be called for an a department specific interview. You should expect to be contacted by the department within 2-4 weeks of the orientation date.

Have questions? Please look over our General Volunteer FAQs sheet. You may also email Lisa O'Dwyer, Volunteer Programs Manager or call her at (510) 632-9525 x141.