Wildlife Champion

Wildlife Champions utilize the entire Zoo to talk about animals. Each shift they can choose the animal(s) they talk about and for how long during their shift. This role requires going through doors, over curbs and up/down hills. WC’s regularly start conversations with guests that can range on a variety of topics depending on the animal, day and audience. It requires volunteers to be able to read body language, gauge interest and tailor presentations to audiences depending on age and background. This role also requires a lot of reading – as WC’s are asked to become familiar with our individual animals, general facts, and overall conservation messaging.

This role may not be suited for individuals who thrive better in direct instruction type of environments. While we do sometimes have biofacts (skulls, furs, etc.) to use, volunteers most often talk with guests regarding the animals and exhibits in front of them.

• At least 14 years of age to volunteer independently; 10-13 with a parent/guardian
• Able to read, speak and understand English
• Able to sit and/or stand for 2-2.5hrs at a time
• Enjoys learning – Previous animal knowledge is not a requirement, but WC’s will be learning about our animals as they go!
• Enjoys teaching people about animals, wildlife, conservation, zoos and environmentalism
• Enjoys meeting new people and starting conversations

• Gate Greeting – All Wildlife Champions start their first year off with three Gate Greeting shifts. This is to help WC’s get familiar with volunteering, using the radio and working with guests before they venture out into the Zoo.

• 9hrs/mo: Wildlife Champions commit to a weekly shift with a minimum of x3 shifts/mo from the time they begin through September.
• Wildlife Champions are the most busy May through Labor Day. Shifts are available in April and September for those volunteers who want to balance their fast-paced days with some more relaxed times when we tend to get more local visitors.

All of these trainings are available as refreshers at any point upon request. Optional trainings allow you to try out other roles as shifts become available. They do not add to your minimum requirements (i.e. training in on another role doesn’t require you to add another set of weekly shifts). Training spots are limited; however, we will schedule more throughout the summer as interest and time allows.

• Online
  • Radio Training (40-50min)
  • Volunteer Expectations (15-20min)
  • Intro to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (20min)
  • Volunteer Software Basics (5-10min)
  • Empathy & Interpretation Basics (60min)
• In-Person
  • Onsite orientation (1hr) – Meet other volunteers, and HVZ Staff, guided Zoo tour, radio practice
  • Wildlife Champion shadowing & practice
• Optional
  • Henry the Lion/Handler – (Must be at least 14+) – Learn how to tell a story, don the lion/handler costume and get practice in costume on grounds
  • Train/Carousel – (Must be at least 18+) – Basic ride operation, safety protocols and guest training
  • Goat Yard – (Must be at least 10-13 w/ parent/guardian, or 14+) – Learn to open & close, operate and educate at the goat yard
  • Gate Greeter – (Must be at least 10-13 w/ parent/guardian, or 14+) – Take a small tour of the Zoo going over important buildings, entries and guest protocol.

Wildlife Champions have the option of interpreting indoors in the event of inclement weather.

Although indoors is an option, we do recognize that humans may not want to come out during truly inclement weather. We will contact volunteers in the event of a cancellation. This will count as an excused absence for the volunteer.