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- Volunteer
Zoo Volunteers
Being a Zoo Volunteer gives you an opportunity to be a part of a worthwhile service. Few things are more satisfying than to know you are contributing to the improvement of the community and the world.
We Need You!! |
Why volunteer?
In the past, volunteers have contributed their time and talents to help make our Zoo beautiful with flowers and gardens. They have spent time with children and helped to open their eyes to the wonders of the animal world. They have helped to keep the Zoo clean and healthy for animals and visitors alike, and they have helped to make our special events successful and fun! Clearly, our volunteers have been an important part of the Zoo.
This will be especially true in the years to come, when the Zoo's many events and programs will be bigger and better than ever before! Much time and effort is required to keep our Zoo fun and safe - we would be seriously overworked without the talents and dedication of our volunteers!
WE NEED YOU!
Volunteer Opportunities
Gardening
If you love to garden, this is the place to be! Our Zoo is known for beautiful gardens throughout the grounds.
Food Preparation
All animals are on special diets. You can learn a lot about nutrition in our new Zoo Kitchen.
Fund Raising and Office Work
If you have a flair for raising funds for special projects, or a knack for organization, the Zoo could use you!
Parade Floats
Help create new and innovative Zoo floats for Michigan City's Fourth of July Parade.
Petting Barn
The sweetest animals are located in our Children's Petting Yard! Come help children encounter friendly animals in a safe environment.
Special Events
Our special Kid's Day at the Zoo and Boo at the Zoo are just two of the many special events the Zoo offers throughout the year. Be an important part of the fun and celebration! |
For more information on our Volunteer Programs, please contact us.

ATTENTION- DOCENT TRAINING BEGINS FALL 2006
Docent training starts in the Fall with evening classes.
Please contact us for a schedule.
What is a Docent?
Docents are volunteer educators. They work on Zoo grounds, educating our guests about wildlife and conservation issues.
- They may take artifacts—including bones, feathers, and pictures—to an exhibit and use those props to engage Zoo guests in conversation.
- They may conduct a slide show or story time in our education building.
- They may patrol the Zoo answering guests’ questions
- They may assist with special events in the Zoo.
- Specially trained docents may handle small demonstration animals for educational presentations.

Docents do NOT work with animals or behind-the-scenes.
Docent Minimum Requirements:
- Must be 18 or older.
- Must be available to attend training course.
- Must pass a final exam demonstrating understanding of concepts covered in training.
- Must be able to commit to at least 10 hours per month of service, for at least 1 year following the training course.
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How do I Become a Docent?
Call the Zoo’s education department at (219) 873-1510 and ask for an application. Once we receive your completed application, we will contact you for a brief interview to discuss the docent program. Docents will be selected based on their interview and willingness to meet basic requirements. |