VolunTEEN Program (Unpaid)

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium•Kansas City, KS

About The Position

The VolunTEEN Program is an unpaid, year-long volunteer program in the Conservation & Education Department at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. It connects students with their community through experience with animals and nature and is designed to be engaging and educational while empowering students to make an impact. Eligible students are encouraged to reapply each year; returning participants may take on expanded duties and responsibilities. Participants join one of two introductory groups. Trailblazers spend most of their time outdoors on Zoo grounds, interacting with guests under the direction of staff and docents. They engage and educate guests about animals and conservation, including by presenting biofacts and other educational materials. DigiTeens spend most of their time completing virtual assignments off Zoo grounds and develop skills related to interests such as data analysis, graphic design, and content creation. Their work helps provide resources for other VolunTEENs to connect with the community. The appointment is based on completing a varied minimum number of hours per season over one year. It may be reappointed for another year at the supervisor’s discretion. Hours are completed on and off Zoo grounds and in the local community; shifts and schedules vary and are flexible. Training is provided, and the Volunteer Contact and Conservation & Education Department employees are available for assistance. Volunteers wear neutral-colored pants or shorts, a provided shirt, comfortable closed-toe shoes, and weather-appropriate outerwear. Individuals currently employed at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium are not eligible to participate in the Zoo’s volunteer program.

Requirements

Must be in 8th through 12th grade at the time of application.
Positive, guest-centered attitude and dependability.
Excellent communication skills.
Must pass a background screening.
Trailblazers must be willing to work in all weather extremes.
DigiTeens must have access to and be able to work on a computer with internet access.

Nice To Haves

DigiTeens: experience with a variety of computer software is preferred.

Responsibilities

Promote the Zoo’s mission, events, and programs to connect audiences with one another, the natural world, and conservation.
Work autonomously as an effective team member and contact leadership when assistance is needed.
Maintain a general understanding of the animal collection, conservation projects, and sustainability initiatives to communicate appropriate conservation messaging.
Maintain a positive disposition and practice active listening during interactions.
Deliver engaging animal interpretation throughout the Zoo and share stories about animals and actions guests can take to help them.
Initiate conversations, answer guest questions, and educate guests about animals.
Use teaching and learning styles appropriate to each engagement.
Continuously improve knowledge of animal welfare, interpretation techniques, and science education techniques.
Support the organization, upkeep, and maintenance of educational materials.
Assist in facilitating and implementing the Zoo and Aquarium’s mission, strategic plan, and core values.
Complete the required seasonal hours and, for DigiTeens, community service hours.
Perform other duties or special projects as assigned in the best interests of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.