Orientation Saturday, October 11, 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon

DETROIT, Mich., September 25, 2008 – West Bloomfield resident David Anthony enjoys volunteering at the Belle Isle Nature Zoo “because it gives me a chance to share my passion for environmental conservation and preservation with visitors who are curious about the wonders of Belle Isle.” 

The Detroit Zoological Society is recruiting more volunteers like Anthony to help at the Belle Isle Nature Zoo.  “There are so many interesting things to do here and visitors and staff are very appreciative of the time and effort volunteers contribute,” said Anthony.

The Society is seeking candidates 18 years of age and older who are friendly and outgoing and have weekends available this fall and winter to lend a hand.  An orientation session will be held to describe volunteer opportunities and expectations on Saturday, October 11, 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, at the Belle Isle Nature Zoo.
 
After the presentation, candidates will have the opportunity to sign up for an individual, informal interview with the Volunteer Services staff to discuss their interests, complete paperwork (including a background check) and sign up for training sessions.

Volunteers are needed in the following areas:

Deer Encounter – Volunteers will share information and answer visitors’ questions regarding the deer.  Other duties include assisting with public feeding of the deer as well as helping to maintain the garden area around the Deer Encounter.  Shifts vary from two to three hours.

Special Events – Volunteers will help at designated events throughout the year.  Responsibilities vary with the types of events but generally include greeting guests, handing out materials, helping with arts and crafts and assisting with set-up and clean-up.  Shifts vary from three to four hours per event.

“Our goal is to recruit more volunteers who are interested in sharing their love of nature and their appreciation for the unique and wonderful gem of Belle Isle,” said Detroit Zoological Society Volunteer Services Manager Linda Denomme.  “Our volunteers enhance the experience for all visitors.”

Many perks come with being a volunteer, including free admission to the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Zoo, free parking, an annual volunteer appreciation party, discounts for Detroit Zoo gift shop and concession stand purchases, discounts on memberships, opportunities to attend conferences and all-volunteer trips for continuing education.

To become a volunteer at the Detroit Zoo or Belle Isle Nature Zoo, contact Linda Denomme at (248) 541-5717 x.3806 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . 

Operated by the Detroit Zoological Society, the Belle Isle Nature Zoo is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round and provides educational programming with interpretive staff support from the Huron-Clinton Metroparks.  For more information, call (313) 852-4056 or visit www.detroitzoo.org/Visitors/Nature_Center/Belle_Isle_Nature_Zoo/.   
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