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Group Painting at Henry Vilas Zoo

What do painting volunteers do?

Painting volunteers help our groundskeeper prep and paint the many, many yards of green railings throughout the Zoo. They help give grounds a much-needed touch-up!

Painting is available to any group of at least 8 volunteers. At this time we are not accepting minors.

What can my group and I expect on our volunteer day(s)?

A HVZ staff member will meet your group at the main entrance to the zoo (the one facing Drake & Randall) at the start of your shift. Expect to walk down to Volunteer Central where we’ll check everyone in for the day, talk to you a bit about HVZ and your gardening project. From there, our groundskeeper will take you to get tools and show you the area you’ll be working in. You’ll have support from our groundskeeper and other volunteer coordination staff throughout your volunteer shift.

What does HVZ provide?

  • Painting & prep tools
  • Any training and support from staff
  • Secure storage space for any belongings
  • Refrigerators and a microwave for any food/beverages
  • A volunteer lounge for cooling down and relaxing when needed

What will our group need to bring?

  • Junky clothing and/or any comfort items (i.e. knee pads, folding chairs, etc.)
  • Sun screen, bug spray, fans
  • (optional) Food, snacks, beverages and any eating utensils

What if the weather is bad?

We need to have a day with no precipitation and temperatures above 50 degrees in order to paint. In the event of bad weather, we will call to cancel as soon as possible. We will do our best to reschedule if your group desires.

I have minors in my group.

At the moment, we do not currently accept painting volunteers under the age of 18.

Our group would like an animal encounter after volunteering.

Wonderful! While we don’t currently include animal encounters as part of our group gardening opportunities, you are more than welcome to schedule a separate Critter Connection through our Education Department here.

Group Painting Confirmation

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First, set up the date and details

Group Contact
If group contact will not be attending
We would like to volunteer

Second, let us know about your group

Finally, finishing up!

This agreement is made by and between Dane County and the undersigned individual, hereinafter the “Volunteer.” The Volunteer will participate in Dane County’s Henry Vilas Zoo Volunteer Program. The Volunteer agrees to conduct volunteer work according to the terms of this program, which are available from Henry Vilas Zoo. The Volunteer understands that they are not an employee of Dane County, and is not entitled to compensation from Dane County. The Volunteer understands that Dane County will not be paying wages, stipend, or Workman’s Compensation benefits. Activities will occasionally require physical activity in an outdoor setting, including walking or standing. Activities will also require interaction with Zoo guests including communication about facilities, directions and other information. The Volunteer gives permission to Henry Vilas Zoo to use images of them while on grounds in a promotional capacity for the Zoo and its programs. I understand that a criminal background check is part of the onboarding process for all adult volunteers.
Consent