Volunteer
You belong in the Zoo! Become a volunteer today!
Of all the ways that a person can support Racine's number-one cultural asset, becoming Zoo volunteer has to be one of the most rewarding. Where else, after all, can you surround yourself with some of the world's most spectacular creatures, meet, work, and learn alongside other dedicated individuals just like you, and gain the sense of satisfaction that comes with giving back to a great community? Being a Zoo volunteer or intern is also a great way to gain valuable work experience in a very competitive field.
The Racine Zoological Society has several unique volunteer opportunities available right now. We rely on the assistance, dedication and enthusiasm of those who share our vision of continuing to make the Racine Zoo a sanctuary for positive interaction between people and the natural world. All positions require that the volunteer communicate effectively and pleasantly with the public as well as represent the Zoo in a positive manner.
Conservation and Animal Welfare Volunteer
Getting down and really dirty caring for animals is hard work but very rewarding! Volunteers in this department assist animal care specialists in the daily care and maintenance of animals and exhibits. Duties include recording observations, diet preparation, exhibit cleaning, assisting with veterinary care, and recordkeeping. The Zoo's collection contains many dangerous animals so volunteers must be mature and responsible, and be able to communicate and work cooperatively in a team environment. In order to ensure the safety of volunteers and the Zoo's collection, this position requires a negative TB test prior to any contact with animals.
Facilities Volunteer
"Habitat restoration" may be a fancy way of saying "weeding" but it is one of the things that helps keep the Zoo campus looking great! Volunteers in this department assist with the care and maintenance of the Zoo's campus, exhibits, and buildings. Maturity and responsibility are very important in ensuring the safety of the volunteer, staff, animals, and guests.
Conservation Education Volunteer
Share your love of nature and wildlife conservation with children and adults alike! Volunteers in this department assist in fulfilling the educational mission of the Zoo. Docents, "volunteens," and interns assist with such tasks as delivering day camp programs, performing educational presentations on-site and off-site, giving guided tours, and answering guests' questions. This position may require the handling of our educational animal ambassadors, including live birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Training will be made available to interested volunteers. The volunteer must have the ability to effectively communicate with the public (including children, teens, and adults) on a regular basis.
Guest Services Volunteer
If you are more comfortable with people than other animals, the place for you to go wild is at the Zoo gift shop! Interested volunteers may also work in the "Zoo Greeter" booth greeting guests and offering information and assistance. The Guest Services staff is often the public's primary interface with the Zoo; therefore, volunteers must be able to communicate pleasantly and effectively with visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Marketing and Special Events Volunteer
Every time you enjoy a special event at the Zoo, you have the special events committee to thank! Volunteers in this department assist the Zoo staff in coordinating the Zoo's relationships with the media, the planning and execution of special events, increasing memberships, and cultivating financial support for the Zoo's operation.
If you are interested in any of these volunteer opportunities, please contact the Racine Zoo at 262-636-9189, or e-mail us at info@racinezoo.org.