Current Volunteer Needs

FAQ
1. Who volunteers at ExplorationWorks?
2. What kind of opportunities are there at ExplorationWorks?
3. Do I need training?
4. What time commitment do I need to make?
5. Are there any benefits for volunteering at ExplorationWorks?
6. Are there any age restrictions for volunteering at ExplorationWorks?

1. Who volunteers at ExplorationWorks?
ExplorationWorks has volunteers of all ages helping in nearly every aspect of the museum. You don’t have to be a scientist or expert to volunteer at Exploration Works. We need folks with all types of backgrounds and experience. Some volunteers work with children, others with adults; some work behind the scenes, others are in the public eye. We will match your schedule, skills and interests with our varied needs.


2. What kind of opportunities are there at ExplorationWorks?
The main areas in which current volunteer opportunities exist are:

Explainers/Floor Staff – help visitors orient to exhibits, monitor exhibit floors, etc.
Field Trip Assistant – help with school field trips during the week
Admissions Desk/Explore Store Assistant – greet and orient visitors, answer questions, etc.
Computer Lab Assistant – assist in a robotics or Girl Tech class
Early Childhood Facilitator – work with young kids in "Little Sky Country"
Birthday Party Facilitator – assist during museum guest birthday celebrations
Class Instructors/Assistant – develop and teach a class, or assist a teacher
Exhibits – help build, install and take down exhibits
Project and Program Committee – help plan future programming and exhibits
Special Events Helpers – set-up, serving, kids activities


3. Do I need training?
Orientation and training are an essential and mandatory part of being a volunteer at ExplorationWorks. Training varies with each position. Explainers will attend training sessions and spend a few shifts shadowing other Explainers before they launch out on their own. Event helpers might just need to show up 1 hour before their shift. We will plan orientation and training schedules on an individual basis.


4. What time commitment do I need to make?
You can join us for a one-time event, or come once a week. We will match your availability, schedule, skills and interests with our needs. Explainers, class/workshop assistants, science café facilitators, etc. will need to commit to a schedule, depending on the level of training necessary.


5. Are there any benefits for volunteering at ExplorationWorks?
In return for your time and enthusiasm, ExplorationWorks! offers extensive opportunities for lifelong learning, intellectual stimulation and social engagement.

Other benefits include:
After your first shift:
1. you receive a “Volunteer Card” (renewed quarterly) allowing you free admission and 10% discount in the Explore Store OR $10 off a Family Membership
2. Incentives to bike or walk to your shift (15 minutes added to your shift, name put in a monthly raffle for certificates for discounts at area businesses)
3. Volunteer Appreciation Events
4. Opportunity for Recognition Awards
After 20 hours:
(in addition to benefits mentioned above)
1. Four Free passes
2. Free admission to most activities and workshops
3. Discounts on Summer Kids Camps


6. Are there any age restrictions for volunteering at ExplorationWorks?
Yes, you must be 14 years of age to volunteer. Younger volunteers need to be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, please contact Amy Sheppard
(ExplorationWorks Volunteer Coordinator)
at 457-1800 x5 or email amys@explorationworks.org