Volunteering at Henson Robinson Zoo

Henson Robinson Zoo offers unique and exciting opportunities for volunteering. There are three volunteer programs in which you may choose to participate.

• Enrichment Volunteers
• Docents
• Special Event Volunteers

While you may choose to pursue only one program, volunteers are encouraged to participate in as many as they want.

The Henson Robinson Zoo Mission

To enhance the education of our community to wildlife and its conservation while providing an enjoyable and recreational experience. We shall achieve our mission by providing a veriety of educational opportunities that increase the awareness of nature and our environment and by developing naturalistic exhibits that create a greater appreciation for wildlife.

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Animal Enrichment Volunteers

Animal enrichment volunteers participate in activities and create items that are focused on enhancing the animals' physical and psychological being.

Some of these items include puzzle feeders, toys, treats, paper mache items, ice treats and more.

Also, items such as new branches, herbs and logs are also introduced to the animals to mimic natural environments.

Requirements of Animal Enrichment Volunteers

There is a minimum of ten volunteer hours required quarterly for a total of 40 hours for the year. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

How to become a volunteer...

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Docents

Docents, or educational volunteers, may participate in any of the following activities:

1. Animal Ambassadors: These volunteers stand next to an animal exhibit and inform the zoo public about the animals in the exhibit.
   
2. Education Stations: Volunteers educate people about a pre-made biofact kit that contains biological artifacts.
   
3. Close Encounters: Docents handle an animal from the education department while educating the zoo public about it.
   

Requirements of a Docent

Docents must meet set hour requirements every three months and volunteer 36 hours per year. There is a training course required to be a docent. Those interested in Close Encounters must attend extra animal handling training sessions.

How to become a volunteer...

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Special Event Volunteers

Special Event Volunteers volunteer their time for one of several activities during one of the zoo's many special events. Some of the tasks a volunteer may bbe given include wearing costumes, running children's games and crafts, vendor set-up and clean-up, photo taking, turtle races and much more!

Requirements of Animal Enrichment Volunteers

Special Event Volunteers are encouraged to attend as many special events as possible. Shifts on these days are flexible. A brief training session is required prior to attending an event. Special Event Volunteers must be at least 16 years old.

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How to become a volunteer

The first step in becoming a volunteer at the Henson Robinson Zoo is to fill out an application and return it to the zoo. Forms are available at the zoo or one may be requested by calling (217) 753-6217. You can also download an application form (PDF, 116k).

Applications will be accepted year-round. You will be notified by mail if you are accepted into the program and you will be given more information about the next available training course where it is applicable.

For more information about the volunteer program, please contact Emily McEvoy at (217) 753-6217 or [email protected]