We have a three-step orientation process. Volunteer Orientation Part 1 is a general overview of our program focusing mainly on opportunities available at the Detroit Zoo. Once you are sure of your interest, Orientation Part 2 provides information on emergency preparedness, the Zoo's educational mission and volunteer policies and procedures. You can attend Orientations 1 and 2 on the same date. Finally, an individual informal interview with a Volunteer Services staff member helps us place you in the volunteer opportunity of your choice. Paperwork including a background check will also be completed.
Recruitment for 2013 begins in March. Please see Orientation Dates to the left.
The minimum age to volunteer is 18 and volunteers do not come in direct contact with animal residents. Some volunteer positions are seasonal; others are year-round.
There are a number of volunteer opportunities at the Detroit Zoo. All of these positions will be described in further detail at Orientation Part 1.
Docents
Our most intensive training prepares these dedicated volunteers to be educators and interpreters at animal habitats throughout the Zoo. In addition, they provide tours and assist with a variety of educational programs both inside the Zoo and in the local community all year long. A multi-week training program is generally offered in the fall.
Australian Outback Adventure ("Mob Squad")
Kangaroos, wallabies and emus call the Australian Outback Adventure home. In this popular Detroit Zoo attraction, guests are able to walk through the habitat and get a closer view of the animals. Volunteers called the "Mob Squad" interact with visitors along the winding pathway inside the animals' habitat. One half-day training class required.
Gallery Guides
These volunteers are based in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery and spend their time talking about butterflies, Science On a Sphere and the permanent art collection in this historic building. One three-hour training session is required.
Ford Education Center Assistants
A wide variety of activities take place in the Ford Education Center and more are coming. Volunteers help as needed and especially enjoy welcoming guests to the changing exhibit hall. Opportunities are available throughout the year and no specific training is required. Pre-shift briefings are provided as needed.
Special Events
Throughout the year the Zoo offers fun and interesting themed events to encourage guests to visit. These could not happen without the helping hands and smiling faces of Zoo volunteers. From greeters to craft assistants; face painters to storytellers; costume wearers to registration helpers, each event has its wish list of specialized assistance. No training is necessary. Pre-shift briefings take place as needed.
Staff Aides
Clerical skills, phone experience and weekday availability on a regular schedule would be assets to volunteers interested in offering their services in this program. Opportunities may become available for ongoing shifts as well as short term projects.
Arctic Ring of Life Guest Assistants
While helping with crowd control in the busy Frederick and Barbara Erb Polar Passage, these volunteers enjoy quality time with the polar bear and seal residents of this award-winning habitat. One half-day training class is required.
Zoo Ambassadors
This is the ultimate “people person” position. Spend half of a three-hour shift greeting guests as they enter the Zoo, helping them get oriented to the map, the facilities and any special events. The rest of the time is spent walking the Zoo looking for ways to be helpful. One full day of training is required for this seasonal opportunity, April-October.
The "BINZ Brigade" is a growing group of dedicated individuals who have a particular connection to Belle Isle as well as the mission of "bringing the wilds of Michigan to the heart of Detroit." Monthly themed programs with a craft activity, snacks and guest speaker educate families and school children and many other special events are scheduled throughout the year. In addition, volunteers assist with the public feedings at the Deer Encounter and answer questions about the Michigan frogs, toads, turtles, bees and fish that can be seen inside the facility. Weekend shifts are available year-round; daily shifts occur mid-June through Labor Day.
There are 3 steps to becoming a volunteer at the Belle Isle Nature Zoo (BINZ):
Attend BINZ Volunteer Orientation
Complete an Interview with Volunteer Services staff.
Shadow a current BINZ volunteer.
Recruitment for 2013 begins in March. Please see Orientation Dates to the left.
