Animals, Children, and Volunteer Hours

With snow still falling, I doubt many people are making plans for the summer. And yet, for anyone interested in volunteering at the National Zoo this summer, the time to start planning is now.
I spent the last summer working as a Senior Class Aide, and it was one of the most enjoyable experiences I've had. The zoo runs several summer camps for young children, and as a Senior Class Aide it was my job to help the teacher in any way I could. It was my responsibility to help set up the craft projects, hand out snacks, and make sure that none of the kids got lost on the long walks around the zoo. I was also often asked to carry the large bag filled with the snacks, first aide kit, and all the paperwork the teachers were required to carry. Fortunately for me though, there were always two younger class aides willing to help. I was also really impressed by the teachers. They were extremely nice and always ready to step in if one of the kids became too much for one of the class aides to handle.

But what volunteer programs does the zoo offer, exactly? In addition to the Class Aide/Senior Class Aide programs, the zoo also offer several other programs.

How Do You Zoo? - How Do You Zoo is a hands-on exhibit where little kids can learn about what it means to be a zookeeper or veterinarian. Teen volunteers are needed to assist in overseeing the exhibit and interacting with the kids.

Kid's Farm- The Kids Farm is a play area and model farm where kids can learn about farming and animal care. Teen volunteers working at the kids farm would be expected to answer visitor's questions and assist in activities like "story-time".

Exhibit Greeter- Teens volunteering as Exhibit Greeters would work at the Invertebrate Building. They would need to answer questions and keep a tally of how many people entered the building.

What's more, if a teen has participated in one or more of these programs, they are eligable to apply for the Keeper Aide summer volunteer program, which is pretty much what it sounds like.
If any of this happens to catch your interest, check out the zoo website for more information :
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Support/Volunteer/Teens/default.cfm

But hurry! The deadline for applying is soon!